Creamy Cheddar and Broccoli Potato Bake with Crispy Onions

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

If using fresh broccoli, steam it until tender (about 5 minutes). For frozen broccoli, microwave for 3-4 minutes until thawed and tender. Set the cooked broccoli aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes), stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Broccoli

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the cooked broccoli florets. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, broccoli, and cheese sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender.

Step 6: Add Crispy Onion Topping

Remove the foil and sprinkle the crispy fried onions and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once baked, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice and serve.

Cooking Notes:

• Cheese Choice: You can substitute the cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix of different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape well during baking, but you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
• Broccoli: For extra flavor, roast the broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic before adding it to the dish.
• Cream: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this Creamy Cheddar and Broccoli Potato Bake alongside roasted chicken, steak, or as part of a vegetarian dinner.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• It’s an excellent side for holiday dinners, including Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Tips:

• Use a mandoline slicer for evenly sliced potatoes, which ensures even cooking.
• If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble it and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.
• Make sure to let the dish rest after baking to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.

Prep Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion

This Creamy Cheddar and Broccoli Potato Bake with Crispy Onions is the ultimate comfort food dish. With creamy layers of potatoes, flavorful broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crispy onion topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your next family gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Try this recipe, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home-cooked meal rotation!