Name: Creamy Parmesan Broccoli Bake
Ingredients: 5 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 16 oz frozen, thawed & patted dry); 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1½ cups milk (whole milk recommended); ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt); ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ tsp garlic powder; Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Optional topping: ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs

Description

Hey friends, Beau here! Broccoli doesn’t have to be boring. In this dish, it’s tender, cheesy, and baked under a golden, bubbly topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks—it’s cozy, comforting, and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients

5 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 16 oz frozen, thawed & patted dry)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk (whole milk recommended)
½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional topping: ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Blanch the Broccoli

Steam or blanch broccoli for 2–3 minutes until vibrant green and slightly tender.
Drain thoroughly and pat dry.

Tip: Dry broccoli prevents a watery bake.

3. Make the Velvety Sauce

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add flour, whisking constantly for 1 minute to make a roux.
Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat; stir in sour cream, garlic powder, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine & Assemble

Gently toss broccoli with cheese sauce in a large bowl.
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Optional: Sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to set the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve family-style alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with grains or soup.
Perfect for potlucks—travels well and is always a hit.

Notes

Watery casserole? Pat broccoli dry and ensure sauce is thick before combining.
Make ahead? Assemble up to 1 day in advance; add a few extra minutes to bake.
Sour cream substitute? Greek yogurt, heavy cream, or crème fraîche.
Freezing? Can freeze, but sauce texture may change; thaw overnight and reheat gently.