Go Back
Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens, embodying warmth and nostalgia with every bite. It's the kind of food that brings people together, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Among the myriad of comfort dishes, cheesy baked broccoli casserole stands out not only for its delightful flavors but also for its nutritious profile, making it a perfect choice for both indulgence and health.

Cheesy Baked Broccoli Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this cheesy baked broccoli casserole! This delightful dish combines tender broccoli and creamy cheeses for a nutritious yet indulgent meal that appeals to everyone. Easy to make in just 45 minutes, it’s a versatile recipe accommodating various dietary preferences. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Elevate your meal with simple serving suggestions and enjoy the delightful combination of health and taste!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

      Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, milk, Greek yogurt, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa (or rice), blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the cheese mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined.

          Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

            Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, the remaining grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the broccoli casserole.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your cheesy baked broccoli casserole!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6