Go Back
+ servings
Holiday Broccoli & Cheese Bake

Irresistible Holiday Broccoli & Cheese Bake for Cozy Nights

This Holiday Broccoli & Cheese Bake is a comforting dish combining tender broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for festive gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Broccoli
  • 4 cups Broccoli florets Use fresh for best texture, or thaw frozen if needed.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese Freshly shredded is best.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Optional, adds depth to the sauce.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Creates a roux for creamy sauce.
  • ¼ cup All-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole recommended for creaminess.
  • ½ cup Heavy cream Adds richness; swap with more milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Complements the cheese and broccoli.
  • ½ teaspoon Black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to suit taste.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs or crushed butter crackers Provides a crunchy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Melted butter Blended with breadcrumbs.
  • 1 cup Extra cheddar for topping Optional for added cheesiness.
Optional Flavor Boosters
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika For smokiness and color.
  • 2 tablespoons Dried parsley For freshness.
  • 1 cup Swiss or Gouda cheese For a unique flavor twist.
  • 1 cup Sautéed mushrooms For earthy richness.
  • ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg To elevate the dish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Blanch fresh broccoli florets in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. For frozen, thaw and drain.
  3. In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter, whisk in the flour to form a roux, add milk and cream gradually while whisking until thick, then stir in cheeses and seasonings.
  4. In a bowl, combine the prepared broccoli and cheese sauce, mixing gently until coated.
  5. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and add extra cheese if desired for the topping.
  6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole mixture.
  7. Bake for 22-28 minutes until golden-brown and bubbly.
  8. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This Holiday Broccoli & Cheese Bake captures the essence of the festive season with its warm and comforting flavors, perfect for gatherings.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!