Broccoli Cheese Casserole Bake (Print View)
Tender broccoli baked in rich, creamy cheese sauce topped golden for a flavorful side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets
02 -
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature, cut into cubes
03 -
1/3 cup heavy cream
04 -
1/4 cup sour cream
05 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
06 -
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
07 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
Salt, to taste
10 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
11 -
Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish, optional
# Directions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 2 1/2 quart or 3 quart baking dish with butter and set aside.
02 -
In a large skillet, bring 1/2 inch of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets, cover and cook over high heat until crisp-tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain thoroughly and transfer broccoli to the prepared baking dish. Set aside.
03 -
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the cream cheese with heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Add sour cream and whisk to combine. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Mix in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
04 -
Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli in the baking dish and stir until evenly combined. Bake in the preheated oven for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling, set, and lightly golden on top.
05 -
Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with crushed red pepper flakes if desired, and serve warm.
# Notes:
01 -
For best texture, avoid overcooking the broccoli in the first step; it should remain slightly firm before baking.