I love broccoli. It is one of my favorite vegetables and I could eat it at every meal. While I love it steamed and lightly seasoned, sometimes I feel like putting a little extra effort in, and making a side dish that really shines. This cheesy broccoli casserole is creamy, cheesy, and rich and it will definitely steal the thunder of the main course at your meal! It is supposed to be a copycat recipe of a Cracker Barrel Recipe, but I don’t think I have ever had this there, so I can’t be the judge of how close it tastes!
This casserole makes a ton and would be a great side for any holiday meal. It also can be made ahead and just baked right before serving, which is always so convenient for get togethers.
Just from the ingredient list, you can tell that this casserole is going to be delicious, and it truly was. I forget what I even served with this meal because all I wanted was to eat all the broccoli. This dish will definitely satisfy your fall comfort food cravings, and because broccoli is the main ingredient, we can say its healthy right?!
Cheesy Broccoli Bake Casserole
Source: Adapted from Food.com
Ingredients:
2 lbs fresh broccoli, steamed
1 garlic clove
4 tbsp. butter, divided
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cup milk
1/4-1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 ounces light or regular cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place broccoli in a greased 2 quart casserole dish. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Melt 2 tbsp. butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add flour, stirring until smooth. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly, add the milk and garlic clove and cook over medium heat. Keep stirring until mixture becomes bubbly and thickens enough that it coats the back of a spoon. Add salt and pepper and cream cheese. Whisk until sauce is smooth.
Pour sauce over broccoli and stir to incorporate. Sprinkle cheese and then breadcrumbs or crackers over broccoli. Bake for 40 minutes, or lightly golden brown and bubbling. Serve immediately. Also tastes great the next day reheated!
