Description
Broccoli Melt is a creamy, cheesy baked side dish featuring tender broccoli mixed with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, sour cream, and mayonnaise, topped with a crispy buttery breadcrumb crust. This comforting casserole is perfect for a quick vegetable-packed addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Cheese and Dairy
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish generously with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm. For frozen broccoli, thaw completely and drain well to remove excess moisture. Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces to ensure even mixing and baking.
- Mix Cheese Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, flavorful cheese mixture.
- Combine Broccoli and Cheese: Add the chopped broccoli to the cheese mixture, stirring well to coat all pieces completely with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form a uniform layer for baking.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined; this will create a crisp and golden topping.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the broccoli and cheese layer. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the broccoli melt warm as a savory side dish or a light vegetarian meal.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture, but frozen works well if properly thawed and drained.
- Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on the saltiness of your cheese.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
