Cheesy Broccoli and Bacon Casserole

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Introduction

Welcome to comfort food heaven with our Cheesy Broccoli and Bacon Casserole! This delightful dish combines tender broccoli florets with crispy, savory bacon, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this casserole is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.

Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also brings a wonderful balance of textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). The melting cheese beautifully ties together the fresh taste of broccoli and the salty crunch of bacon, making it an irresistible favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will leave you with a delicious dish that proves comfort food can be quick and easy. So preheat your oven and get ready to whip up a meal that will warm hearts and fill bellies!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 6 strips of bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. 1. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. 1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
4. 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, crumbled bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
5. 1. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. 1. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.
7. 1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. 1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
9. Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 6

Key Ingredients

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: About 4 cups, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Bacon: 6-8 strips, cooked and crumbled for a smoky flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (sharp or mild, depending on preference).
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened for creaminess.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup, for added richness.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for enhanced flavor.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon to complement the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning.
• Rice: 1 cup, uncooked (optional for a more filling casserole).
• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (optional for topping, if desired).

These ingredients come together to create a rich, cheesy, and satisfying casserole that balances the freshness of broccoli with the savory goodness of bacon. Enjoy!

Baking Process

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain any excess water. Steam the broccoli for about 3-5 minutes until it’s bright green and slightly tender, then set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and let it cool on a paper towel to absorb excess grease. Crumble the bacon once it’s cool enough to handle.

4. Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for an additional minute. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.

5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, crumbled bacon, and half of the cheese sauce. Stir until well mixed. If desired, you can also add cooked rice or pasta for additional texture and heartiness.

6. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the broccoli and bacon mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top, ensuring everything is covered.

7. Add Toppings: For an extra touch, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs or additional cheese on top for a crunchy, cheesy finish. This step is optional but adds a delightful texture.

8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut into portions.

10. Garnish (Optional): If you wish, you can garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously cheesy and hearty Broccoli and Bacon Casserole! Perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with a Protein: This cheesy broccoli and bacon casserole makes a fantastic side dish, but it can also be served as a main course. Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or seared salmon for a wholesome meal.

2. Serve with a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a light, refreshing salad. A classic Caesar salad, a simple mixed greens salad, or a tangy cucumber and tomato salad will complement the dish beautifully.

3. Add Some Bread: Serve the casserole alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. A nice baguette or a side of buttery dinner rolls will enhance the meal.

4. Top with Fresh Herbs: For an added flavor boost and a pop of color, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme before serving.

5. Offer a Variety of Vegetables: Incorporate additional roasted or steamed veggies, like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans, on the side. This adds color, nutrition, and variety to your plate.

6. Create a Buffet Style Meal: Serve the casserole at a gathering with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread, allowing guests to assemble their own plates.

7. Use as a Filling: Try using the casserole as a filling for baked potatoes or as a topping for nachos, adding some fun and creativity to your meal.

8. Serve with a Sauce: Accompany the casserole with a drizzle of hot sauce, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing to add an extra layer of flavor and a bit of excitement.

These serving suggestions will ensure your cheesy broccoli and bacon casserole is not only satisfying on its own but also completes a delicious and well-rounded meal. Enjoy!

Conclusion

This Cheesy Broccoli and Bacon Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone looking to combine comfort food with a hint of nutrition. The creamy cheese sauce, paired with crispy bacon and tender broccoli, creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers the next day!

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as shredded chicken for added protein or swapping out the broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply as a satisfying weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home.

So gather your ingredients, get your oven preheated, and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite of this delightful casserole. Happy cooking!

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