Name: Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Crispy Panko Topping
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 5 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets, about 1 1/4 pounds; ¼ cup white whole wheat flour; 1 ¾ cups non-fat milk; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp dry mustard; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper, optional; ½ cup freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese

Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Crispy Panko Topping

This lightened-up broccoli casserole is packed with cheesy flavor and topped with a crispy, golden panko-Parmesan crust.

Prep25 min

Cook25 min

Total50 min

DifficultyEasy

Servings4

This easy broccoli bake transforms humble florets into a creamy, cheesy side or main dish. A light béchamel-style sauce binds the broccoli, while a crunchy panko-Parmesan topping adds irresistible texture.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday potlucks, this recipe uses non-fat milk and a modest amount of cheese to keep things lighter without sacrificing flavor. The whole thing comes together in one ovenproof skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Method

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of the melted butter with the Panko and Parmesan. Set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 3 minutes, until crisp-tender. Drain well and set aside.
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large ovenproof skillet (cast iron works well). Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk constantly for 1 minute, until fragrant and slightly golden.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and bubbles, about 3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder, salt, dry mustard, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Then add the cheddar and stir until smooth.
Add the drained broccoli to the skillet and stir to coat evenly. Pat the mixture into an even layer. If your skillet is too small, combine the broccoli and sauce in a separate bowl, then transfer back to the skillet.
Sprinkle the reserved Panko mixture evenly over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and the topping is golden and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

💡 Tips

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and all-purpose gluten-free flour.
You can substitute the cheddar with any good melting cheese like Gruyère or Gouda.
If you don't have an ovenproof skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before adding the topping.

Inspired by a recipe from Well Plated

Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Crispy Panko Topping

Ingredients

Method

💡 Tips

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