Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake for my family! It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together, especially on a relaxing weekend. The combination of tender broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser. I enjoy experimenting with different cheeses to elevate the flavor, and this dish allows for that creativity. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, taking less than an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for busy afternoons. Truly, it’s a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a cheesy treat!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:16:12.355Z

When I first made this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, I wasn’t sure how my family would react, but it quickly became a favorite. The secret is in the cheese blend; using both sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella gives it an irresistible flavor and texture. I’ve even considered adding breadcrumbs on top for an extra layer of crunch.

One tip I find essential is to steam the broccoli just until tender before adding it to the cheese sauce. This keeps it vibrant and prevents it from becoming mushy during baking. Trust me, this simple technique transforms the whole dish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Perfectly tender broccoli for a nutritious twist
Quick to prepare and easily serves a crowd

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

Cheese is the star of this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, and the choices you make can significantly impact the flavor. Sharp cheddar brings a robust tanginess, while mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch. Don’t hesitate to experiment with alternative cheeses; Gruyère or Fontina can enhance the dish with nutty notes. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as rich.

When combining cheeses, it’s essential to choose options that melt well. A blend of cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile, elevating the overall dish. Be sure to shred your cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as the anti-caking agents in pre-packaged cheese can prevent proper melting, resulting in a clumpy sauce.

Perfecting Texture and Doneness

Getting your broccoli just right is vital for achieving the best texture in this bake. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color. I recommend steaming the florets until they are bright green and just tender, about 3-4 minutes. This keeps their shape and provides a slight crunch, complementing the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.

Baking time is also crucial. Aim for a total of 25-30 minutes in the oven, but start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown on top. If the edges begin to darken too quickly, you can cover the dish lightly with foil to prevent burning while ensuring it heats through.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once your Cheesy Broccoli Bake is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the cheese sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing burns. This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or as a side for roasted meats, adding a delightful cheesy element to any meal.

If you have leftovers, store the bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, to revive that signature meltiness. Alternatively, you can freeze portions for later. Just make sure to wrap them tightly; it will be best consumed within a month.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Bake

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they're vibrant and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

In a baking dish, layer the steamed broccoli and pour the cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and cayenne pepper if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips

Experiment with additional vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for a colorful twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have sharp cheddar on hand? You can substitute with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack for a less intense flavor, or try pepper jack if you're in the mood for some heat. For the heavy cream, half-and-half or a full-fat milk blend will work, but be aware that the resulting sauce may be less thick and creamy.

Vegetarians can enjoy this dish by ensuring that the Parmesan used is not made with animal rennet. For a gluten-free option, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable while avoiding any gluten-containing breadcrumbs or fillers.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weekends. Simply follow the steps up to the baking point, then cover the assembled dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

If you prefer to freeze it, assemble the bake and freeze before baking. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and remember that frozen dishes often take a bit longer to cook through, so keep an eye on it.

Variations to Try

You can adapt this recipe to suit different tastes by incorporating cooked proteins such as chicken, ham, or even crumbled bacon into the mixture for added flavor and heartiness. For a twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the cheese sauce for extra layers of taste.

Herbs can also freshen up the profile of this dish. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary added just before serving can brighten the rich flavors. If you love a spicier kick, mixing in chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the cheese sauce could provide a delicious contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the dish.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! Cooked chicken or bacon can be added for a heartier dish.