Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Bake

Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Bake

A rich and creamy casserole featuring tender broccoli florets and chopped ham blanketed in a sharp cheddar cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden.

Dietary

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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. If using fresh broccoli florets, steam or blanch them until crisp-tender (about 3-5 minutes). If using frozen, cook according to package directions until thawed and tender-crisp. Drain well.
  3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a light roux forms.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, a little at a time, until smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
  6. Add the cooked broccoli florets and diced cooked ham to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top, followed by 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  9. While the bake cooks, prepare a simple mixed green salad by tossing 4 cups of mixed green salad with 2 tablespoons of vinaigrette dressing.
  10. Let the bake stand for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with the fresh mixed green salad.

Notes

You can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the ham. The bake is a great way to use up leftover cooked ham.

Nutrition (per serving)