Name: Broccoli Cheese Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ cup dry bread crumbs; 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheese Bake Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it combines the bright, fresh taste of broccoli with the rich decadence of melted Swiss cheese and a creamy sauce. It’s easy to put together in under an hour, uses simple ingredients, and delivers that warm, homey feel that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. The dish also lends itself to customization (swap cheeses, add extras), so you can make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 cups fresh broccoli
½ cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all‑purpose flour
1 small onion, chopped
1¼ cups milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups shredded Swiss cheese
2 large eggs, beaten

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 °F (165 °C).
Place the broccoli in a steamer over about 1 inch of boiling water. Cover and cook until crisp‑tender, about 2 to 6 minutes. Drain.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir, cooking until the mixture is bubbly. Stir in the chopped onion, then add the milk. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.
Add the shredded Swiss cheese and beaten eggs to the sauce, stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth. Add the broccoli and stir to coat.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13‑inch casserole dish.
Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly throughout, about 30 minutes.

Servings and timing

Serves: 7
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: ~30 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes

Variations

Swap the Swiss cheese for cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses to change the flavour profile.
Add cooked diced chicken, ham, or chopped bacon for a heartier dish.
Mix in other vegetables such as cauliflower, green beans, or peas for extra colour and texture.
Use low‑fat milk and reduced‑fat cheese for a lighter version.
Stir in a teaspoon of garlic powder or a handful of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for added flavour.
Add a crunchy topping: sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or crushed Ritz crackers over the casserole before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let leftovers cool, then cover the casserole dish with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the baked casserole in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Cover the dish with foil and bake until heated through (about 15–20 minutes). Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

What kind of broccoli should I use—fresh or frozen?

Fresh broccoli is recommended because it holds its texture well during steaming and baking. If you only have frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Can I make this ahead of time and bake later?

Yes — you can assemble the casserole up to the point before baking, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Then bake as directed when ready to serve.

Is it possible to omit the eggs?

You can omit the eggs if needed, but keep in mind they help the casserole set and bind the sauce. Without eggs, the dish will be creamier and less firm.

Can I make this dish gluten‑free?

Yes — instead of all‑purpose flour, you can use a gluten‑free flour blend or cornstarch (about 1½ to 2 tablespoons) to thicken the sauce. Make sure all ingredients used are certified gluten‑free.

How can I prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy?

Steam the broccoli only until crisp‑tender and drain it well. Avoid overcooking before baking to maintain texture.

Can I use a different size casserole dish?

Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly. A smaller, deeper dish may require more time; a larger, shallower one may need less.

What is the best way to get a golden top on the casserole?

To get a golden top, switch the oven to broil during the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

How do I reheat this dish without drying it out?

Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to retain moisture. If using a microwave, add a splash of milk or butter to help maintain creaminess.

Can I turn this into a main dish?

Yes — add cooked protein like chicken, turkey, ham, or even beans. Serve with rice or bread for a complete meal.

Why did my sauce separate or become grainy?

The sauce can break if heated too quickly or if cheese is added over high heat. Keep heat moderate and stir gently for a smooth consistency.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Bake is a delightful side dish or satisfying vegetarian main that brings together the comforting flavours of broccoli and creamy cheese in one oven‑baked dish. With easy prep, plenty of ways to adapt, and reliable make‑ahead and storage options, it’s a great go‑to for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd.

Broccoli Cheese Bake