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Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Bacon

Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Bacon for Cozy Nights

A delightful Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Bacon transforms vegetables into a comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Quick Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bake
  • 6 cups Broccoli Florets Substitute with cauliflower for a different taste.
  • 2 Carrots, sliced Zucchini can be used as a substitute.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened Neufchâtel or Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic may also be an alternative.
  • 3/4 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded Other hard cheeses, such as Gouda or Gruyère, can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded Use provolone for a different stretchiness.
  • 4 slices Bacon, fully cooked, chopped Substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version.
For the Topping
  • 1/3 cup Panko Bread Crumbs, toasted Regular breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds are options for variations.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • 2-quart casserole dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Gather the other ingredients and equipment, including a large pot for blanching and a 2-quart casserole dish for baking.
  2. In the large pot, bring water to a boil and add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots. Blanch the veggies for 2-3 minutes until they are crisp-tender; drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  4. Gently fold the blanched broccoli and carrots into the cheese mixture, ensuring every vegetable piece gets coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the greased 2-quart casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the broccoli and cheese mixture. Add the chopped bacon pieces across the breadcrumbs.
  7. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Once done, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Avoid overcooking the broccoli and carrots during blanching for the best texture. Feel free to mix different cheeses for varied flavors, and ensure your panko breadcrumbs are toasted beforehand for extra crunch.

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