The Ultimate Comfort Food: A Casserole That Brings Families Together
There’s something magical about a casserole that can transform simple ingredients into a masterpiece of comfort and flavor. This Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Casserole is more than just a dish – it’s a culinary hug that brings warmth to your dining table. Packed with nutritious vegetables, creamy cheese, and layers of deliciousness, this recipe is set to become a staple in your family’s meal rotation.
Why This Casserole Will Win Your Heart
- Nutrient-Rich: Combines vegetables and protein in one delightful dish
- Kid-Friendly: Sneaks in vegetables that even picky eaters will love
- Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep
- Comfort Food Perfection: Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this amazing casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- Potatoes: 500g (17.6 oz | 1.1 lbs)
- Broccoli: 300g (10.6 oz)
- Onion: 1 large
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Carrot: 1 medium
- Bell Pepper: 1 medium
- Spring Onions: 2-3 stalks
- Tomatoes: 2 medium
- Eggs: 3 large
- Milk: 100ml (3.4 fl oz)
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Butter: 70g (2.5 oz)
- Cheese: 300g (10.6 oz)
- Provençal Herbs: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable Oil: For frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and peel potatoes
- Cut into medium-sized chunks
- Boil in salted water until half-cooked (about 10 minutes)
- Drain and set aside
2. Prepare the Vegetables
- Finely chop onion and garlic
- Grate carrot
- Dice bell pepper
- Slice spring onions
- Cut tomatoes into wedges
- Separate broccoli into florets
3. Blanch the Broccoli
- Pour hot water over broccoli
- Let stand for 10 minutes
- Drain well
4. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan
- Sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes
- Add carrot and cook for 3-5 minutes
- Add bell pepper, salt, black pepper, and Provençal herbs
- Cook for additional 2-3 minutes
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Whisk eggs, milk, and flour
- Season with salt and black pepper
- Set aside
6. Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan
- Add flour and cook for 1 minute
- Gradually whisk in milk
- Stir continuously until thickened
- Add 100g cheese and stir until melted
7. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Layer half-cooked potatoes in a baking dish
- Add sautéed vegetables
- Pour half the egg mixture
- Sprinkle 1/3 of remaining cheese
- Add broccoli layer
- Pour remaining egg mixture
- Top with cheese sauce
- Sprinkle remaining cheese
8. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving
Nutritional Insights
This casserole offers a balanced mix of:
- Complex Carbohydrates from potatoes
- Protein from eggs and cheese
- Fiber from vegetables
- Essential Vitamins from broccoli and other vegetables
Cooking Details:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 80-90 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Serve as a hearty main dish
- Side Dish: Pair with a light salad or protein
- Meal Prep: Excellent for make-ahead meals
- Potluck Favorite: Always a crowd-pleaser
Pro Cooking Tips
- Potato Perfection: Par-boil potatoes to ensure perfect texture
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for best melting
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables
- Herb Hack: Customize with your favorite herb blend
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip meat entirely
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and check other ingredients
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or ham
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Prepare and refrigerate before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if cold.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before cooking.
Q4: How can I make it more kid-friendly? Cut vegetables smaller and involve kids in the cooking process.
Q5: What can I serve with this casserole? Try a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigeration: Store covered for 3-4 days
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and make cheese sauce in advance
- Portion Control: Easily divides into individual servings
Dive into this delicious, comforting Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!