Golden Cheddar Broccoli Bake
A creamy, cheesy broccoli bake with a crunchy cornflake topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The rich cheddar flavor complements the tender broccoli, making it a comforting and satisfying dish suitable for all ages. Easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 2 tablespoons margarine in a saucepan; stir in flour and salt.
- Gradually add milk, mixing until smooth.
- Cook until the mixture boils, stirring constantly.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
- Mix in 1/4 cup corn flakes and drained corn.
- Arrange cooked and drained broccoli spears in a 7 1/2 x 11 3/4-inch baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli.
- Toss remaining 1/2 cup corn flakes with 2 tablespoons melted margarine.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add some protein, cooked chicken or shredded turkey blends well with the broccoli. You can also use a different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free corn flakes or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This Golden Cheddar Broccoli Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside quinoa or a grain salad. Consider serving with a dollop of Joyce'S Dip for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Cheddar Broccoli Bake contains roughly 528 calories, with 10g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value) and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1188mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
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, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the dish. This enhances the flavor and texture. However, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat cheese and margarine to reduce calories and fat. Additionally, substituting whole grain corn flakes for regular ones can add more fiber. You could also add in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats to avoid cooking it cold. It may need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven.
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).