Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of a cheesy casserole. The Cheesy Dreamy Broccoli Bake is a perfect embodiment of this genre, combining the vibrant green of fresh broccoli with the rich, creamy goodness of melted cheese and the wholesome heartiness of quinoa. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a nutritious boost, making it an excellent choice for family meals, weeknight dinners, or even potlucks.

Discover the comforting goodness of Cheesy Dreamy Broccoli Bake, a delicious casserole that blends fresh broccoli, nutrient-rich quinoa, and creamy cheeses. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals. Packed with the health benefits of broccoli and quinoa, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. Customize it with your favorite cheeses or veggies for a unique twist, making it a beloved addition to your recipe collection.

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Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (approximately 1 large head)

1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice of your choice)

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus an additional 1/2 cup for topping)

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for an extra flavor kick)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs recommended for crunch)

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for a vibrant garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach temperature as you prepare the other ingredients.

Blanch the Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2 minutes, or until they turn bright green and become slightly tender. Immediately drain the broccoli and plunge it into a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. After a minute, drain the broccoli again and set it aside.

Create the Cheese Mixture: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and milk. Using a whisk, blend these two ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth. Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese (remember to reserve 1/2 cup for later), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and Dijon mustard if you're using it. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa (or rice) along with the blanched broccoli to the cheese mixture. Gently fold and stir until all the broccoli and quinoa are evenly coated with the luscious cheese blend.

Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are well-coated, which will help them achieve a nice, crispy texture in the oven. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

Add Extra Cheese: Finish your topping by sprinkling the reserved 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the breadcrumbs, creating a deliciously melty layer on top.

Bake in the Oven: Place the prepared dish in the preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

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

- Presentation Tips: Serve the Cheesy Dreamy Broccoli Bake directly from the baking dish or portion it onto individual plates. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a wholesome meal. Enjoy this comforting dish hot for the best cheesy experience!