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Best Easy Broccoli and Cheese Bake Recipe

Name: Best Easy Broccoli and Cheese Bake Recipe
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 220 g
Ingredients: broccoli florets 5 cups; cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups; whole milk 1 cup; eggs 2 pieces; cream cheese 4 oz; cooked white rice 1 cup; unsalted butter 2 tbsp; garlic, minced 2 cloves; onion, finely chopped 0.5 cup; kosher salt 1 tsp; black pepper 0.5 tsp; paprika 0.5 tsp

Creamy broccoli and cheese bake with a golden, bubbly top is a comforting, vegetarian, family-favorite holiday side. This crowd-pleasing casserole makes even veggie skeptics ask for seconds.

Cook 55 min Difficulty EASY 245 kcal

#vegetarian #mediterranean

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

broccoli florets 5 cups
cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
whole milk 1 cup
eggs 2 pieces
cream cheese 4 oz
cooked white rice 1 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

unsalted butter 2 tbsp
garlic, minced 2 cloves
onion, finely chopped 0.5 cup
kosher salt 1 tsp
black pepper 0.5 tsp
paprika 0.5 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 18 g 29%

Protein 13 g 21%

Fat 13 g 48%

Serving size 220g

Cooking steps

1

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with 1 tbsp butter for even browning.
2

Steam the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain well to prevent excess moisture in the bake.
3

Melt the remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft but not browned.
4

In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream cheese (softened), salt, black pepper, and paprika until smooth. Stir in the cooked rice.
5

Fold in sautéed onion/garlic, steamed broccoli, and 1½ cups cheddar cheese. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
6

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar evenly over the top.
7

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden, cheese is bubbly, and the center is just set (registers 165°F).
8

Cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to let the bake firm up, ensuring clean slices and maintaining a creamy texture.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient that makes this Broccoli and Cheese Bake special?

Cheddar cheese is the standout ingredient in this recipe. It gives the casserole its signature creamy, tangy flavor and creates the golden, bubbly crust that makes this bake so inviting. Paired with tender broccoli and a creamy egg base, cheddar ensures the dish is both comforting and crave-worthy.

Q. What is the most important cooking tip for the perfect texture?

To achieve a creamy yet non-watery bake, it's crucial to drain the broccoli thoroughly after steaming. This step prevents excess liquid from making the casserole soggy and ensures every bite has a satisfying, set texture. Allowing the bake to cool slightly also helps it slice neatly.

Q. How do I avoid overcooking or undercooking this casserole?

Bake until the top is golden and bubbling, and the center is just set—an internal temperature of about 165°F is ideal. Overbaking can dry out the casserole, so check for doneness at the 35-minute mark and watch for the cheese’s golden color.

Q. What are the nutrition facts for one serving?

Each serving (220g) of this Broccoli and Cheese Bake contains 245 kcal, with 18g carbohydrates (29% of calories), 13g protein (21%), and 13g fat (48%). This balance offers moderate protein, creamy comfort, and satisfying flavor while remaining vegetarian.

Best Easy Broccoli and Cheese Bake Recipe

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