Craving that creamy, cheesy, comforting broccoli casserole you get at Cheddar's? You don't have to wait for a restaurant visit anymore! This copycat recipe brings all the cheesy goodness right to your kitchen table. It's a perfect side dish for any occasion, a quick weeknight dinner, or a satisfying meal on its own. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for those seeking delicious dishes and healthy meals, offering a homemade cooking experience that will impress everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside. Don't overcook the broccoli; you want it to retain some texture.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the broccoli cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your casserole.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheeses are starting to melt.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; oven temperatures can vary.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as a quick dinner idea or a delightful side to your favorite protein.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Different cheeses: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Colby Jack.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake when ready.
- Crispy topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking time. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this broccoli and cheese casserole is a testament to that! Enjoy!