Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love indulging in a warming, cheesy bake on a Sunday, and this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake hits the spot every time. With its creamy cheese sauce generously enveloping tender broccoli, it's a comforting dish that's both simple to prepare and utterly satisfying. As we gather around the dinner table, the delightful aroma fills the room, and I often find myself going back for seconds. This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or as a hearty side for any occasion.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:10:07.758Z

When I first tried making a cheesy broccoli bake, I was looking for something warm and inviting to serve my family on a chilly Sunday evening. The combination of fresh broccoli and a rich cheese sauce was irresistible, and I experimented with different cheeses to create the perfect blend. I discovered that adding a touch of garlic and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs gave it that extra flavor and crunch that made it a hit.

One tip I swear by is to steam the broccoli just until tender before mixing it with the sauce. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and helps to infuse it with the delicious cheese flavor. Trust me, your family will ask for this bake every week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy cheese sauce perfectly complements fresh broccoli
Quick and easy preparation, making it perfect for busy Sundays
A comforting dish that's great for family gatherings or weeknight dinners

      

The Importance of Fresh Broccoli

Using fresh broccoli florets is vital for achieving the best flavor and texture in this cheesy bake. Fresh broccoli has a vibrant crunch that holds up well against the creamy sauce, providing a delightful contrast. If you happen to use frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy bake.

When preparing the broccoli, steaming is recommended over boiling, as it preserves the bright green color and nutrients. Aim for just 3-4 minutes of steaming until tender yet still firm. This ensures that the broccoli remains vibrant and adds a fresh element to the creamy, rich cheese sauce.

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of this dish, and using a mix of cream cheese and sour cream creates a luscious and tangy base. Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing; this will help achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute half of the cheddar with mozzarella cheese for a creamier texture.

Additionally, incorporating garlic into the cheese sauce infuses a savory depth that complements the richness. Be careful not to overmix the sauce after adding the broccoli, as you want to maintain the broccoli's integrity and not break it down too much into smaller pieces.

Assembly and Baking Tips

For an even bake, make sure to spread the broccoli-cheese mixture into the baking dish evenly. A glass baking dish is ideal as it allows you to monitor the browning on the underside. When topping with cheese and breadcrumbs, consider mixing some spices, like paprika or Italian herbs, with the breadcrumbs for added flavor and visual appeal.

To achieve that wonderful golden and bubbly top, keep an eye on your bake during the last few minutes. Broil on high for 1-2 minutes towards the end if you want an extra crisp finish. Just be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Now that you've gathered all your ingredients, it's time to transform them into a delightful bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious bakes:

Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

Fold in the steamed broccoli and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Bake

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal with family or friends!

Enjoy your homemade Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, a delightful dish that's sure to please everyone!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or roasted vegetables to mix things up. This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for busy weekends. You can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking, allowing it to come to room temperature for more even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, covering with foil if necessary to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy bake stands alone as a comforting vegetarian dish, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or baked fish for a heartier meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes, which balance the richness of the cheese.

Feel free to customize your bake by adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These additions add flavor and nutrition, making the dish even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the steaming time slightly, as frozen broccoli is usually blanched before freezing.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor!

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly and a great source of veggies!