Classic Broccoli Casserole is a comfort food staple! A perfect holiday side dish for any occasion made with fresh or frozen broccoli and topped with cheesy breadcrumbs!
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a casserole dish of your choosing or an 8x8 casserole dish with non-stick spray.
Steam the broccoli for 5 minutes in a pan with a steamer basket in 1-2 inches of water.
Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
While the broccoli is cooking, heat 4 tablespoons of the butter in a large pan over low-high heat then add the garlic and stir while cooking for 1 minute.
Add the flour, thyme leaves, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper and cayenne powder to the pan and stir to combine.
Let it cook as you stir for about 2 minutes, or until it starts to bubble and thicken.
Gradually whisk in the milk and continue whisking for another 3-4 minutes or until it thickens up.
Add in the cooked broccoli, cheddar and asiago cheese and stir to combine until completely melted.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and set aside.
Add the breadcrumbs, parmesan, remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and pepper to a medium size bowl and stir to combine.
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the microwave then pour it over the breadcrumb mix and stir again to combine.
Sprinkle the crumbs over the broccoli mix and cover with non-stick foil.
Bake for 15 minutes, then uncover it and bake for another 4-5 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden color.
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving with crackers or as a side dish.
Notes
Broccoli Casserole Recipe Notes and Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Pop in the oven or microwave and heat until warmed through.
Feel free to add extra seasonings or play with combinations! Add red pepper flakes for extra spice, onion powder for something more savory, or even try out different types of cheese.
Add in onions, mushrooms, carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to up the veggie intake even more.
To make this a full meal instead of a side dish you could add a protein like chicken or sausage into the mix.