Get ready to transform your boring vegetable side dish into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Creamy Bacon and Roasted Red Pepper Broccoli Bake is not just another vegetable casserole – it's a culinary adventure that combines crispy bacon, rich cheeses, and perfectly tender broccoli into one irresistible dish. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe promises to be a game-changer that will make even the most vegetable-averse family members come back for more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut any large florets into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces once cooled.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, and crumbled bacon. Mix until well incorporated.
- Drain the broccoli florets and gently fold them into the cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top to create a crispy golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course, garnished with additional crumbled bacon or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Steam, Don't Boil: Steaming your broccoli ensures it retains its vibrant green color and nutritional value. The ice bath trick helps stop the cooking process and keeps the broccoli crisp.
- Bacon Matters: Use high-quality bacon and cook it until it's perfectly crispy. The crumbled bacon adds a smoky depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother consistency.
- Breadcrumb Pro Tip: For extra crunch, consider mixing your breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
- Customize: Feel free to add garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or swap cheeses to make this recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
