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Cozy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Cozy cheesy broccoli casserole with golden panko topping in a baking dish.

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This creamy, golden-topped bake is a powerhouse of nutrition, packing a full serving of vegetables into every comforting forkful. It is the perfect marriage of tender broccoli and a rich, velvety cheese sauce, all baked under a buttery, crunchy topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, warmed slightly
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and plunge into ice water, then drain well.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  4. Sprinkle flour over onions and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in warm milk and broth until smooth. Cook, whisking, until thickened, 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar, all Gruyère, sour cream, Dijon mustard, paprika, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Fold in blanched broccoli.
  6. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. In a bowl, combine panko, melted butter, remaining 1/2 cup cheddar, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over casserole.
  7. Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and topping is golden brown. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and panko. For dairy-free, use plant-based alternatives. Shred cheese from a block for a creamier sauce. Can be assembled ahead and frozen before baking.

Nutrition