Cheesy Baked Broccoli Delight
If you love the rich and tangy flavor of blue cheese, this Cheesy Baked Broccoli Delight is the perfect dish for you. Inspired by a beloved recipe from Maytag Dairy Farm, this indulgent casserole features tender broccoli florets enveloped in a creamy blue cheese sauce, enhanced by the nutty aroma of baked breadcrumbs. Ideal as a side dish or even a hearty vegetarian main, this dish will elevate any dinner table and impress your family and friends. For the best flavor, try to use Maytag Blue cheese, but any high-quality blue cheese will work beautifully.
6
Servings
200
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
broccoli
1 1/2 lbs (trimmed, florets separated, stems cut into 1/4-inch slices)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
flour
2 tablespoons (all-purpose)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
milk
1 cup (whole milk preferred)
blue cheese
1/2 cup (crumbled)
cream cheese
3 ounces (room temperature)
dried breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (preferably seasoned)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a medium saucepan, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets and sliced stems in the boiling water for about 2 minutes. Drain the broccoli and transfer it to a shallow, buttered casserole dish.
3
In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, until the mixture is bubbling and fragrant.
4
Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to stir as the mixture thickens, about 4 minutes.
5
Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and add in the crumbled blue cheese and room temperature cream cheese. Stir until completely melted and combined, then pour the sauce over the broccoli in the casserole dish.
6
Evenly sprinkle the dried breadcrumbs over the top of the broccoli and cheese mixture.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the top is lightly browned and bubbly.
8
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, cheesy creation!
Nutrition Information
11.7g
Fat
11.7g
Carbs
8.3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Baked Broccoli Delight?
It is a rich casserole featuring tender broccoli florets in a creamy blue cheese sauce topped with breadcrumbs.
Which blue cheese is recommended for this recipe?
Maytag Blue cheese is highly recommended, though any high-quality blue cheese will work well.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but fresh broccoli is preferred for the best texture; ensure frozen broccoli is thawed and drained well.
How should the broccoli stems be prepared?
The stems should be cut into 1/4-inch slices and blanched along with the florets.
What oven temperature is required?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long should the broccoli be blanched?
Blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for about 2 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is categorized as a vegetarian-friendly side or main course.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Can I substitute the whole milk?
Whole milk is preferred for creaminess, but you can use lower fat milks although the sauce may be thinner.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Dried breadcrumbs are best, and seasoned ones add an extra layer of flavor.
How do I make the cheese sauce?
Create a roux with butter and flour, whisk in milk until thick, then stir in blue cheese and cream cheese.
How long does the dish need to bake?
Bake for about 25 minutes until heated through and the top is lightly browned.
Can I add more garlic?
The recipe calls for 2 minced cloves, but you can adjust the amount based on your preference.
Why should the cream cheese be at room temperature?
Room temperature cream cheese melts more quickly and smoothly into the sauce without leaving lumps.
How much broccoli is needed?
You will need 1 1/2 lbs of trimmed broccoli.
Can I use a different cheese besides blue cheese?
While blue cheese provides the signature flavor, you could substitute with Gorgonzola or even sharp cheddar if preferred.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 8.3g of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 11.7g of fat per serving.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe requires 3 ounces of cream cheese.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe specifies unsalted butter, but you can use salted butter and reduce any additional salt.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The dish is ready when it is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Can I use Panko breadcrumbs?
Yes, Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for a crunchier texture.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 11.7g of carbohydrates.
Is there fiber in this recipe?
While broccoli is high in fiber, the specific amount for this recipe is not listed in the data.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long do I cook the flour and butter mixture?
Stir the butter, flour, and garlic for about 1 minute until bubbling and fragrant.
What type of dish should I use for baking?
A shallow, buttered casserole dish is recommended.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh minced garlic is best, but you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if necessary.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Yes, it is hearty enough to be served as a vegetarian main course.