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 sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake as it's such a comforting dish to enjoy with my family. Every bite combines tender broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce that feels indulgent yet wholesome. I find that using fresh broccoli instead of frozen elevates the flavor and texture tremendously. Plus, it’s the perfect way to sneak in some greens during our weekend feasts, making it a beloved addition to our table that everyone looks forward to!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:33:35.031Z

Preparing the Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake was an exciting challenge, especially since I wanted the cheese sauce to be both creamy and flavorful. I opted for a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère, which created a delightful melty texture. It was important to let the broccoli steam before adding it to the dish, ensuring it retained some crunch and didn’t turn mushy during baking.

One of the tips I discovered was to mix panko breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and cheese before sprinkling it on top. This not only gives a beautiful golden crust but also adds a delightful crunch to each serving, making it look as good as it tastes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness that satisfies every craving
A delicious way to enjoy nutritious broccoli
The crispy topping adds a wonderful texture contrast

      

Choosing the Right Broccoli

Selecting fresh broccoli is pivotal for this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake. When picking your broccoli, look for vibrant green florets that are tightly closed. Avoid any with yellowing or wilting, as they may be past their prime. Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but also holds up well during baking, providing a tender yet crisp texture that's essential for this dish.

If you're in a pinch for time, you might consider pre-cut broccoli, but be sure to check its freshness. For a twist, try mixing in some cauliflower florets, which pair well with the cheese sauce and contribute a lovely textural variety.

Cheese Selection Tips

The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère in this recipe creates a delightful depth of flavor. Sharp cheddar brings a tangy richness, while Gruyère offers a distinctive nutty taste that enhances the overall creaminess. If you're looking to mix things up, consider using fontina or even a smoked cheese for a different flavor profile that will surprise your taste buds.

Make sure to shred your cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltiness. Freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly, giving your cheese sauce a luxurious texture. For those who are lactose intolerant, a lactose-free cheese option can work perfectly here too!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Steam the broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk until smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheddar and Gruyère until melted.

Combine and top

In a baking dish, combine steamed broccoli and cheese sauce. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce before baking. This will add a subtle heat that complements the cheese beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the cheesy broccoli bake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil to avoid any drying out. When you're ready to bake, there’s no need to let it sit out; simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to account for the chill.

If you have leftovers, they can last up to three days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy texture of the topping—about 15-20 minutes at the original baking temperature should do the trick. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but the bread crumbs won't stay as crispy.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheese sauce isn't thickening as expected, ensure you're cooking the flour and butter mixture thoroughly before adding the cream. The flour must cook out to avoid a raw taste. If the sauce still seems thin after adding the liquid, simmer it gently while stirring continuously until it reaches your desired consistency.

For a topping that’s too soggy, make sure your panko breadcrumbs are well-coated with melted butter for maximum crispness. If they don't crisp up, a quick broil for a minute or two can help achieve that golden, crunchy finish, but watch closely to prevent burning!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh broccoli will have a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and drained.

→ What cheese can I substitute if I can't find Gruyère?

You can use a blend of mozzarella and a slightly aged cheddar for a similar effect.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's chilled.

→ What can I serve with the Cheesy Broccoli Bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or even on its own as a vegetarian main.