I remember when I first moved to the U.S., missing the comforting flavors of home but struggling to find time to cook. That’s when I crafted this Broccoli Cheese Bake recipe—easy, creamy, and perfect for busy weeknights. In about an hour, you get a warm, cheesy dish that feels like a hug on a plate and fits right into any hectic schedule.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Bake
- Creamy and cheesy with just the right balance of melted Swiss cheese and tender broccoli
- Kid-friendly and simple enough for beginner cooks to make confidently
- Versatile as a main dish or a hearty side, great for any occasion
- Takes about an hour from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknight dinners
Ingredients
- 1 pound head of broccoli
- 3½ tablespoons vegetable shortening
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk
- 1¾ cup shredded Swiss cheese (or cheddar cheese)
- 1-2 large eggs beaten
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325F (160C). Prepare your oven so it’s ready when the bake is assembled.
- Lightly grease a large baking dish. Use a dish at least 10 x 7 inches (25 x 18 cm) to hold everything comfortably.
- Cook broccoli in boiling water. Boil for about 5-10 minutes until broccoli is al dente, then drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture.
- Make the cheese sauce. Over low heat, melt vegetable shortening in a large pot. Whisk in flour and salt until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and begins to boil. Let it simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Combine broccoli and cheese. Fold shredded cheese and broccoli into the sauce gently until cheese starts to melt. Add beaten eggs and stir gently to combine.
- Bake the mixture. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-45 minutes.
- Let it rest before serving. Remove from oven and let sit 5 minutes. Enjoy!
You can substitute broccoli with Romanesco or cauliflower if you prefer.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Bake
- Use fresh broccoli florets for a firm texture; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly to prevent excess water.
- Swiss cheese gives a nutty creaminess, while cheddar adds classic tang; Gruyere also works beautifully for a richer flavor.
- Drying the broccoli well and gently simmering the cheese sauce prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
Variations and Customization
| Variation | Description | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Different cheeses | Swap Swiss for cheddar or Gruyere | Changes richness and sharpness |
| Toppings | Add breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions | Adds crunch and texture |
| Added proteins | Mix in cooked beef sausage, ham, or shredded chicken | Makes it heartier and protein-packed |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli Cheese Bake up to the baking step and cover tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze unbaked in a freezer-safe dish for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled pork chops for a satisfying meal.
- Serve alongside cheesy pull-apart garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete dinner.
- Goes well with simple rice pilaf or amazing garlic mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
Dietary Variations (Gluten-Free, Keto, Dairy-Free)
| Variation | Ingredient Substitutions | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour | Prepare sauce as usual. |
| Keto-Friendly | Replace flour with almond flour; use heavy cream instead of milk | Cook sauce slowly to thicken. |
| Dairy-Free | Substitute milk with almond or oat milk; use dairy-free cheese alternative | Melt shortening and create sauce with dairy-free products. |
How to Store and Reheat Broccoli Cheese Bake
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325F (160C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.
Can You Freeze Broccoli Cheese Bake?
Yes, freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to 2 months. To thaw, refrigerate overnight before reheating in the oven until hot throughout.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving Calories: 320 | Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 15g | Vitamins: A, C, Calcium, Iron
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and vary by ingredients used.
Amazing Broccoli Cheese Bake: Easy Weeknight Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 325F (160C). Prepare your oven so it’s ready when the bake is assembled.
- Lightly grease a large baking dish. Use a dish at least 10 x 7 inches (25 x 18 cm) to hold everything comfortably.
- Cook broccoli in boiling water. Boil for about 5-10 minutes until broccoli is al dente, then drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture.
- Make the cheese sauce. Over low heat, melt vegetable shortening in a large pot. Whisk in flour and salt until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and begins to boil. Let it simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Combine broccoli and cheese. Fold shredded cheese and broccoli into the sauce gently until cheese starts to melt. Add beaten eggs and stir gently to combine.
- Bake the mixture. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-45 minutes.
- Let it rest before serving. Remove from oven and let sit 5 minutes. Enjoy!
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Broccoli Cheese Bake watery?
Too much moisture from the broccoli or overcooked vegetables can cause waters to pool. Make sure to dry the broccoli thoroughly after boiling and avoid using frozen broccoli without thawing and drying.
What size baking dish should I use?
A dish at least 10 x 7 inches (25 x 18 cm) works best to allow even cooking and proper thickness without overflow or dryness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry well to remove excess water. This prevents the bake from getting watery.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheese Bake is my go-to for cozy weeknight dinners—simple, creamy, and full of comforting flavor. It’s versatile and forgiving for busy cooks, making every dinner a little easier and warmer. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments. I love hearing your kitchen wins!
