Welcome to a savory journey with our Broccoli & Cheddar Delight! This recipe combines the vibrant freshness of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheese, creating a comfort dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this vegetable-forward delight that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Broccoli: The star of the dish, bringing color, texture, and a nutritional punch. Steaming keeps it tender-crisp, so it holds up beautifully in baking.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the broccoli. Use sharp cheddar for maximum impact.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty contrast to the cheddar, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These two create a creamy base that binds everything together, keeping the casserole moist and rich.
Eggs: Help to set the casserole, adding structure and richness.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These pantry staples add depth and umami without overpowering the dish.
Cracker Crumbs: Create a crunchy, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Butter: Used to moisten the cracker crumbs, making a luscious topping that browns perfectly.
This Broccoli & Cheddar Delight pairs well with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It’s also a wonderful side dish at holiday gatherings, complementing turkey or ham perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly.
Next, steam your broccoli florets for about 5 minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp — not overcooked. Once done, drain them well and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth, ensuring the ingredients are well incorporated.
Fold the steamed broccoli into this creamy mixture. Make sure each floret is well coated, as this will ensure every bite is flavorful.
Now, transfer the broccoli mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures that it bakes uniformly.
For the topping, mix cracker crumbs with melted butter in a small bowl until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle this over the top of your casserole, ensuring an even layer for that perfect crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
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