Ingredients

450g Broccoli Cut Into Florets
2 tbsp Water
200g Cheddar Cheese Grated
100g Cream Cheese
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
2 tbsp Breadcrumbs
Salt and Pepper to Taste

Method

Step 1: Cook Broccoli

In a microwave-safe dish, mix the broccoli florets with water. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or cling film.

If you’re using cling film, pierce a few holes in the top to allow the steam to escape. Microwave on high for around 4 minutes until just tender. Drain any excess water.

This is based on a 900w microwave. If you have a lower-wattage microwave, cook it initially for 5 minutes. If you have a higher-wattage microwave, check it after 3 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, mix grated cheddar, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth and creamy. You want the cheese to have just melted.

Step 3: Combine

Mix the cheese sauce to the steamed broccoli. Make sure the broccoli florets and evenly coated in your cheese sauce. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.

Step 4: Final Cook

Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. You’ll want to give it time to rest for a minute or two so that the heat can disperse through the casserole.

Tweaks

Add Freshness Give the casserole some freshness by adding some thyme leaves or by garnishing with fresh parsley.
Turn It Into Soup Turn this casserole into a soup by blending it with stock until you get to the perfect soup consistency.
Add Spices I’ve used just onion and garlic for flavouring in this but paprika, mustard, chilli powder or hot sauce would work well.

Substitutes

Swap for Cauliflower If you’d prefer cauliflower, then simply swap out some or all of the broccoli for cauliflower.
Use Any Cheese Cheddar might be the go-to option for making a broccoli casserole but you could try Parmesan, gruyere or other grated cheese that melts.

Storage

In the Fridge To store your broccoli and cheese casserole leftovers, let them cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

In the Freezer To freeze broccoli and cheese casserole, first let it cool completely, then divide it into portions, and store in freezer-safe containers or tightly wrap in foil, and it can be kept frozen for up to three months.

Tips

Use a Big Enough Dish: Opt for a dish that is not only microwave-safe but also big enough to allow the broccoli to be spread out evenly. This helps in cooking the broccoli uniformly.

Get a Smooth Sauce: Stir the cheese sauce well after microwaving to ensure a smooth, even consistency. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of milk can be added