Description
Broccoli Melt is a delightful side dish featuring tender broccoli florets baked in a rich, cheesy sauce topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This comforting recipe blends sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with creamy sour cream and mayo, seasoned with garlic and onion powders, then baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a quick and satisfying 35-minute meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Cheese Mixture
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Others
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for steaming if needed or greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm. If using frozen, thaw thoroughly and drain excess water. Chop the broccoli into small bite-sized pieces to ensure even mixing and baking.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a creamy, well-seasoned sauce forms.
- Combine Broccoli and Cheese: Add the chopped broccoli to the cheese mixture. Stir gently until the broccoli is fully coated with the cheesy sauce, ensuring every bite will be flavorful.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer that will cook consistently.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli and cheese for a crunchy, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Bake until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and bubbly, indicating the cheese is melted and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or a light main meal. Enjoy the cheesy, creamy, and crispy delight!
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best flavor and texture, but frozen works well if properly thawed.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat twist.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted meats.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
