Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend); 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake for my family; it’s a comfort food that brings everyone together. The gooey, cheesy layers combined with tender broccoli create a delightful flavor that even my pickiest eaters can't resist. Plus, it's an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while not compromising on taste. With just a handful of ingredients, this bake comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for Sunday gatherings or as a simple weeknight dinner. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:28:06.316Z

When I first experimented with this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, I wanted to create a dish that not only tasted amazing but also used ingredients I already had in my fridge. The combination of creamy cheese and fresh broccoli turned out to be a winner! What shocked me was how quickly it all came together—perfect for when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the dish without overwhelming it. Trust me, it's a game-changer! Each bite offers a beautiful balance of flavors that makes this bake a hit at any table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, gooey cheese enveloping tender broccoli
Simple ingredients that you probably already have
Perfect side dish for family gatherings or cozy dinners

      

Perfecting the Cheese Mixture

The cheese mixture is the star of this dish, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. A combination of sharp cheddar and a milder cheese can balance the flavors beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some grated Parmesan or a hint of cream cheese for extra creaminess. This mix should be thick but spreadable; adjust with a little milk if it feels too dense, allowing it to coat the broccoli evenly for maximum flavor.

Incorporating the garlic powder into the cheese mixture is essential, as it elevates the overall taste. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference—add a bit more for a stronger flavor or a pinch less for a milder touch. Also, don't skip the seasoning—salt and pepper are vital to enhance the natural sweetness of the broccoli and the richness of the cheese, leading to a more well-rounded dish.

Baking to Perfection

Baking this broccoli dish at 350°F (175°C) allows the cheese to melt evenly while the broccoli remains tender. Be sure to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; you’re looking for a golden, bubbly top. This often signifies that the cheese has reached that delicious, oozy consistency we all crave. If the top isn't browning as expected, you can switch on the broiler for a minute or two—just watch it closely to prevent burning.

For an added crunch, the optional breadcrumb topping should be mixed with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top. This not only enhances the flavor but helps the breadcrumbs toast beautifully, adding a pleasant texture contrast to the creamy filling. If you prefer a gluten-free version, consider using crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain that delightful crunch without compromising taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your cheesy masterpiece:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Now that you have everything, let’s put it all together!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.

Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain well and spread evenly in a baking dish.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Combine and Bake

Spread the cheese mixture over the steamed broccoli, mixing gently. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add cooked bacon bits or diced onions to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt.

Storage and Reheating

This Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it tasting fresh, make sure it's cooled completely before refrigerating. If you plan to enjoy it later, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, or for the whole dish, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning during this process.

If your leftovers feel a bit dry when reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to rejuvenate the cheese sauce. For these reheating methods, keeping an eye on the timing is key; nobody wants overcooked broccoli or burnt cheese! This dish also freezes well; simply allow it to cool fully, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Broccoli Bake pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a simple grilled chicken to make for a satisfying meal. It's particularly great as a side dish during family gatherings, where it can complement other hearty favorites and provide a tasty veggie option. I often serve it alongside a crisp salad to balance the richness of the cheese and add more freshness to the table.

For a twist, you can also customize the bake into a full meal by adding cooked chicken or bacon into the cheese mixture. This not only enhances the protein content but introduces additional flavors that harmonize with the broccoli and cheese. Serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, right before serving can also add color and an aromatic touch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used; just ensure it's thawed and drained well before mixing.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is traditional, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or a cheese blend.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and just pop it in the oven when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.