Prepare to revolutionize your dinner table with a mind-blowing side dish that transforms ordinary broccoli into a creamy, tangy masterpiece! This Blue Cheese Broccoli Casserole isn't just another vegetable recipe - it's a culinary adventure that will make even the pickiest eaters beg for seconds. Imagine tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich, decadent blue cheese sauce, topped with a perfectly crispy breadcrumb crust that adds an irresistible crunch to every single bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Steam the broccoli florets in a steamer basket or microwave for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp but still bright green. Be careful not to overcook.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and crumbled blue cheese. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Season the blue cheese mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Gently fold the steamed broccoli florets into the blue cheese mixture, ensuring each piece is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the broccoli and blue cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a light, crunchy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnished with additional fresh cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality, freshly crumbled blue cheese instead of pre-packaged crumbles.
- Steam broccoli just until tender-crisp to maintain its vibrant green color and prevent mushiness.
- Pat broccoli completely dry after steaming to prevent excess water from making your casserole runny.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb topping.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs if possible for a more golden and crispy topping.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the blue cheese mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 425kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
