Broccoli-Parmesan Bake
A quick and cheesy broccoli bake with Parmesan and bread crumbs, perfect as a healthy side dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the broccoli and stir it with the onion flakes, water, and mayonnaise until well mixed.
- Spoon the broccoli mixture into a shallow, nonstick baking dish.
- Combine the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoned bread crumbs, then sprinkle on top of the broccoli.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt to the broccoli mixture. You can substitute the light mayonnaise with plain yogurt or a vegan mayo for a different flavor profile. If you want extra crunch, try using panko bread crumbs instead of regular Italian seasoned ones. This dish is a great way to use up leftover broccoli from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Parmesan Bake makes a delightful side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish. For a hearty vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a quinoa salad or with crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with Switzerland Cheese Fondue for a cozy gathering. Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Broccoli-Parmesan Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, though the oven will keep the topping crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Parmesan Bake contains roughly 197 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to steam or blanch it briefly until tender but still crisp before mixing with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the vibrant color and texture in the final bake.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version of this Broccoli-Parmesan Bake, swap the light mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. You can also replace the bread crumbs with crushed nuts or seeds for added texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Broccoli-Parmesan Bake, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the broccoli mixture. You could also top the dish with sliced jalapeños before baking for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).