Looking for a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying? Our Delightful Broccoli Casserole is the perfect choice for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. This recipe combines the wholesomeness of broccoli with the hearty texture of potatoes and a rich, creamy topping, making it a hit with adults and kids alike.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Casserole
This broccoli casserole stands out for several reasons:
- Healthy and Hearty: Loaded with vegetables and seasoned perfectly with herbs and spices, it offers a healthful twist to traditional comfort food.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or a side, at brunch or dinner.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or cheeses.
Ingredients
- Vegetables:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 400 grams of mushrooms, sliced
- 5-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- Seasonings:
- Olive oil, as needed
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Custard Mixture:
- 4 eggs
- 100 ml milk
- 100 grams Greek yogurt
- Cheese:
- 150 grams of cheese, grated
- For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 pickled cucumber, finely chopped
- Fresh dill, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C.
- Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water, then drain.
- Toss the sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and layer them in a greased baking dish. Partially bake until slightly softened.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Sauté garlic, onion, carrot, and bell pepper until softened. Add mushrooms and season with basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until tender.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the sautéed vegetables and cherry tomatoes over the potatoes. Distribute the broccoli evenly.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and yogurt together, season, and pour over the vegetables. Top with grated cheese.
- Bake:
- Increase oven temperature to 200°C and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic, pickled cucumber, and dill.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the casserole warm with the sauce on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions About Delightful Broccoli Casserole
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw it first; just extend the blanching time by a few minutes to ensure it’s tender.
What type of cheese is best for this casserole? Any cheese that melts well will work great in this casserole. Popular choices include cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both for extra flavor and gooeyness.
Is this broccoli casserole suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Can I add meat to this casserole? Yes, you can easily add meat to this casserole to make it even heartier. Cooked chicken, turkey, or ham are excellent additions. Just make sure the meat is cooked before you add it to the casserole.
How can I make this casserole vegan? To make this casserole vegan, substitute the eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cheese and a vegan yogurt blend for the custard. Check that the mayonnaise and other condiments are vegan-friendly as well.
What can I serve with this broccoli casserole? This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or a light soup. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but versatile enough to complement a variety of sides.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover broccoli casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion: A New Staple in Your Recipe Collection
Our Delightful Broccoli Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring comfort and joy to your dining table. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this casserole promises to deliver satisfaction and smiles all around.
Read Also: Healthy Broccoli Egg Bake Casserole: Nutritious Breakfast Recipe