Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake because it transforms a simple vegetable into a delicious comfort dish that the whole family devours. We often make this as a warm side on lazy Sundays, and it never fails to please. The combination of creamy cheese and tender broccoli creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it my go-to recipe when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:25:12.152Z

Every time I make my Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, it brings back memories of childhood family gatherings. My parents often made it with our garden-fresh broccoli, which made it taste even better. Now, I enjoy recreating that dish with my kids, and they love helping me mix the cheese sauce. I find that adding a touch of garlic helps elevate the flavors while keeping the dish bright and exciting.

What I truly love about this recipe is its versatility. Not only can you swap out broccoli for other vegetables, but you can also adjust the cheese blend to fit your family's taste. I’ve tried it with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and even a hint of blue cheese, which made it more decadent! It’s a dish that can grow and evolve with every Sunday dinner.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness that satisfies your cravings
A great way to sneak more veggies into your diet
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

The Magic of Creamy Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of this dish, providing a rich and creamy base that perfectly complements the broccoli. When combining the cream and cheddar over medium heat, you’ll want to stir continuously to avoid scorching. The goal is to achieve a smooth, glossy sauce without lumps. If your sauce becomes too thick, adding a splash more cream can help loosen it back to the desired consistency.

Cheddar cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the comforting texture of this bake. I prefer using sharp cheddar for its robust taste, which contrasts beautifully with the mildness of the broccoli. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using a blend of mozzarella and cream cheese for a creamy, lower-fat version that still retains that mouthwatering gooeyness.

Perfecting Your Broccoli

Blanching the broccoli is an essential step that enhances its vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture. During the blanching process, aim for a quick cook time of just 3 minutes; overcooking can lead to mushiness. After blanching, immediately plunge the broccoli into an ice bath to halt the cooking process and preserve that bright color and crunch.

If fresh broccoli isn't available, you can successfully substitute frozen broccoli florets. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making your dish watery. Additionally, if you enjoy a more robust veggie flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or sautéed onions to the cheese sauce that will amplify the dish’s overall taste.

Baking and Serving Tips

When transferring the broccoli and cheese mixture to a baking dish, use a spatula to ensure even distribution. This guarantees that every bite is filled with cheesy goodness. As you sprinkle the breadcrumbs and Parmesan on top, make sure to cover the entire surface for a consistent, crispy layer once baked. Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy topping, if desired.

Once out of the oven, allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period will help the cheese sauce set slightly, making it easier to serve. Pair this cheesy broccoli bake with roasted chicken or grilled meats for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish with a fresh salad.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a heartfelt dish for your loved ones.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cream
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

Once you have everything ready, you're just a few steps away from a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a cheesy delight!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Broccoli

In a large boiling pot, blanch the broccoli florets for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper over medium heat. Slowly add the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Add Toppings

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy delight!

Now it’s time to enjoy. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as a main for a vegetarian dinner.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, try adding some chopped cooked bacon or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven; just ensure you cover it with foil when reheating in the oven to maintian moisture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or until the top regains some of its original crispiness.

For long-term storage, consider freezing this dish after baking. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and then pop it in the oven for approximately 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

Variations and Swaps

This Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to swap in other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for a colorful medley. You can mix in cooked protein such as chicken or ham to make it a hearty main dish. Experiment with different cheeses too; gouda or fontina can add unique flavors.

For a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream for the cheese sauce. This substitution not only reduces the calories but adds a creamy texture and protein boost. If you or your loved ones are dairy-free, opt for a nut-based cheese alternative along with plant-based cream to keep the cheesy essence of this bake while accommodating dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing with the cheese sauce.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute half of the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This cheesy bake pairs excellently with grilled chicken, steak, or even as a side with a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook.