Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake

Name: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

Indulge in this comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar bake, perfect for a cozy dinner or a delightful side dish.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T16:19:28.032Z

This creamy broccoli cheddar bake is a delightful combination of fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, baked to perfection. A family favorite that brings comfort to the table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies
Nutritious broccoli packed with flavor
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions

      

A Comforting Classic

The Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake is a quintessential comfort food that merges the rich flavors of cheddar cheese with the nutritious crunch of broccoli. This dish is not just a side; it can easily become the star of your dinner table. Whether you are looking for a hearty meal or a delicious accompaniment to your main course, this bake fits the bill perfectly.

With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this recipe is a great way to sneak in some vegetables, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. The balance of flavors ensures that you'll enjoy every bite, while the warm, bubbly cheese sauce provides a satisfying contrast to the tender broccoli.

Versatile for Any Occasion

One of the best things about this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake is its versatility. It can easily be adapted to fit a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. You can serve it alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish during potlucks. Its appealing presentation and comforting taste make it a hit at any table.

Additionally, this recipe can be customized with different cheeses or added ingredients such as cooked chicken or other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your family's preferences, ensuring that it becomes a staple in your home.

Easy to Prepare

Preparing the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake is straightforward and requires minimal effort. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying dish ready to go. The blanching of broccoli ensures that it maintains its vibrant color and crunch while soaking up the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet indulgent. Plus, the bake can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making it easy to pop in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Just reheat and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy broccoli cheddar bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Broccoli

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once heated, add the cheddar cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

Combine and Bake

In a baking dish, combine the blanched broccoli and cheese sauce. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak. The rich flavors of the bake complement the savory notes of meats, enhancing your dining experience.

For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will balance the creaminess of the bake, making for a refreshing contrast on your plate.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that this dish stores well. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors again.

When it’s time to reheat, simply place the bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For a crispy topping, you can uncover it for the last few minutes of reheating. This method ensures that your leftovers remain just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.

Nutritional Benefits

Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating it into your meals not only adds flavor but also boosts your overall health. The creamy sauce made from cheese and dairy provides a good source of calcium, making this dish both indulgent and nutritious.

By enjoying the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake, you can feel good about indulging in a dish that contributes to your daily vegetable intake while still satisfying your cravings for something rich and cheesy. It's a delightful way to embrace healthy eating without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just ensure it is thawed and drained before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This creamy broccoli cheddar bake pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or as a standalone vegetarian dish.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.