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Comfort food has a unique way of wrapping us in warmth and nostalgia, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. It satisfies not just our hunger but also our emotional needs, offering a sense of security and contentment. Among the myriad options that qualify as comfort food, the Cheesy Broccoli Delight Bake stands out as a nutritious yet indulgent choice that perfectly balances health and flavor. This dish seamlessly combines the vibrant, earthy taste of broccoli with a rich, cheesy goodness, making it an irresistible meal for both adults and children alike.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Broccoli Delight Bake! This delightful dish combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with creamy cheeses to create a meal that satisfies both hunger and nostalgia. Perfect for families, it transforms veggies into a tasty treat that even picky eaters will love. Easy to prepare and versatile, this bake is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness tonight!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup milk

1/2 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for approximately 2 minutes until they turn vibrant green. Immediately drain the broccoli and transfer it to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Once cool, drain the broccoli again and set aside.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the softened cream cheese, milk, and sour cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you prefer some heat). Cook the sauce, stirring often, until it's heated through and creamy, about 5 minutes.

        Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, cooked quinoa, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over this mixture and stir gently until all ingredients are fully coated.

          Prepare for Baking: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch or similarly sized baking dish. Pour the cheesy broccoli mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

            Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the mixture. Next, add the panko breadcrumbs in a single layer over the cheese, ensuring full coverage.

              Bake: Place the assembled dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling with deliciousness.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. For a pop of color, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Scoop out portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 6 servings