Description
Broccoli and cheese — two ingredients that create a match made in culinary heaven. When you roast broccoli to golden perfection and top it with gooey cheddar cheese, you get a side dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets (1 lb): Use fresh or frozen broccoli, depending on what you have on hand.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): This helps the broccoli crisp up beautifully.
- Cheddar cheese (shredded, ½ cup): Choose sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Adds a subtle savory note that complements the cheese.
- Salt: Season to your taste.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) or Air Fryer at 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the florets are evenly coated.
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Spread the broccoli in a casserole. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
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Spread the broccoli in a casserole. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
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Place the broccoli casserole in the oven and roast the broccoli for 15 minutes.
- Take the tray out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli. Return the tray to the oven and roast for an additional 5–7 minutes.
Notes
- Use Fresh Cheese: Shred the cheddar from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Smaller broccoli florets cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Parmesan, mozzarella, or a combination for different flavor profiles.
- Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Finish with a Squeeze of Lemon: Brighten the dish with a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg (adjust based on added salt)
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg