Get cozy with these 20 deliciously creamy and cheesy broccoli comfort recipes! As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting dish to brighten up your day. And what better way to do that than with a rich and indulgent broccoli recipe? From classic casseroles to innovative twists on traditional dishes, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the ultimate comfort food: creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients – broccoli! Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole, a comforting soup, or even some crispy fritters, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering recipes to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, grab a blanket, and let’s dive into the world of creamy cheesy broccoli comfort food!
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of steamed broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam broccoli until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine steamed broccoli and cheesy sauce. Mix well to coat.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup
A comforting and creamy soup that combines the sweetness of broccoli with the richness of cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli florets and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté broccoli and garlic until tender.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Top each breast with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Quiche
A classic quiche recipe with a twist! This Broccoli Cheese Quiche combines the flavors of steamed broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and flaky pie crust for a delicious brunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 3 cups steamed broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange steamed broccoli florets evenly on the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the broccoli.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and broccoli.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake
A creamy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot throughout.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cheesy Broccoli
Elevate your side dish game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and melted cheese on a bed of tender broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread the broccoli mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the broccoli and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 17-23 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
A delicious twist on traditional twice-baked potatoes, these stuffed spuds combine the flavors of broccoli, cheese, and herbs for a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed until tender
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, mix steamed broccoli with cheddar cheese, feta cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Scoop out potato flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch thick shell.
5. Stuff each potato with the broccoli-cheese mixture.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Return stuffed potatoes to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Bake
A comforting and satisfying pasta dish packed with tender broccoli and a rich cheesy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli with butter and garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and cheesy sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Fritters
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and savory broccoli cheese fritters!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine broccoli, cheese, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the egg to the mixture and mix well.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the broccoli mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (4-6 fritters at a time)
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin
A creamy, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cauliflower; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese. Pour the cheesy mixture over the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of broccoli and cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine broccoli, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the broccoli-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread
A savory twist on traditional cornbread, this Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread combines the warmth of corn with the brightness of broccoli and a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, egg, and broccoli florets; stir until just combined.
4. Pour in the shredded cheese and mix until well incorporated.
5. Transfer batter to prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Dip with Pretzels
A creamy and savory dip that combines the flavors of steamed broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and crunchy pretzels. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of pretzels (about 20-25 pieces)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
4. Add the steamed broccoli, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Pour the dip into a serving bowl and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Arrange pretzels around the dip for serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes steaming broccoli)
Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the creaminess of cheese and the crunch of broccoli, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the broccoli in butter until tender.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with a spoonful of cooked broccoli, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Potato Skins
A flavorful twist on classic potato skins, this recipe combines the creaminess of cheese with the earthy sweetness of broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer to hold shape.
4. In a bowl, mix together chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, and sour cream.
5. Stuff each potato skin with the broccoli-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four skins.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake stuffed potatoes for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Alfredo Pizza
This mouthwatering pizza combines the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the earthy taste of broccoli, all wrapped up in a crispy crust and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread Alfredo sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with broccoli florets and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
This recipe brings together the savory flavors of meatballs with the added surprise of steamed broccoli and melted cheese. A perfect combination for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a meatball.
4. Stuff each meatball with about 1 tablespoon of steamed broccoli and 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Say goodbye to bland macaroni and hello to a rich, cheesy, broccoli-infused delight that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, combine flour and milk. Whisk until smooth, then add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Bring to a simmer and stir until melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, broccoli, and cheesy sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Bread Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these savory and satisfying broccoli cheese stuffed bread rolls. Flaky bread, filled with a delicious blend of steamed broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and creamy butter – it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. In a separate pan, steam broccoli until tender. Let it cool.
4. Mix cooled broccoli with cheese and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the broccoli mixture onto one half of the rolled-out dough.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle or roll shape. Press edges to seal.
7. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious twist on traditional pancakes – Cheesy Broccoli Pancakes! This recipe combines the flavors of steamed broccoli and melted cheddar cheese with fluffy pancake batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup steamed broccoli florets
– 1 egg
– Salt to taste
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
2. Add grated cheese, steamed broccoli, and egg to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or enjoy as is!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy, and deliciously comforting broccoli recipes! From classic casseroles to innovative twists on pasta bakes and stuffed vegetables, this collection of 20 mouthwatering dishes will satisfy your cravings for rich and satisfying flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole, a warm and gooey dip, or a savory soup, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the comfort food magic begin!