Broccoli and cheese casserole is a comforting classic that has graced many a Midwestern table. This dish, with its roots in American home cooking, combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the indulgent creaminess of cheese. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying. Using a slow cooker for this recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully while freeing up your oven for other dishes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side or a vegetarian main, this casserole is sure to please.
This broccoli and cheese casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. A crusty loaf of bread or some fluffy dinner rolls would be perfect for sopping up any extra cheese sauce. If you’re serving it as a side dish, it complements roasted chicken or grilled pork chops beautifully.
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Slow Cooker Baked Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Servings: 6
Ingredients
4 cups broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray.
Place the broccoli florets in the slow cooker.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the milk, heavy cream, and garlic powder. Heat until just warm.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring until melted and smooth.
Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli in the slow cooker, stirring to coat the broccoli evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.
Preheat your oven’s broiler.
Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Place the dish under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Garnish with chopped parsley and green onions before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or Monterey Jack can be used in place of cheddar for a unique flavor. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them entirely. For added protein, consider mixing in some cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled bacon.
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