Cheesy Baked Broccoli and Egg Casserole – Quick & Comforting Family Meal

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mild blend)
• 2 tbsp milk, cream, or plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Small pinch of garlic powder (optional)
• Mild herbs (optional – parsley or chives)
• Salt & pepper to taste (optional)

Preparation Method

1. Soften the Broccoli

For the best texture, cook the broccoli briefly:

• Steam or boil for 4–6 minutes
• Drain thoroughly
• Roughly chop into bite-sized pieces

This keeps the casserole tender rather than watery.

2. Whisk the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Eggs
• Milk or yogurt
• Olive oil or butter
• Cheese
• Herbs or seasoning (if using)

Whisk until smooth and evenly blended.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the broccoli evenly in a lightly greased baking dish, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Gently shake the dish so the mixture settles between the vegetables.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes, until:

• The center is set
• The edges are lightly golden
• The top looks softly puffed

5. Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and improves texture.

Serving Ideas

This casserole works wonderfully as:

• A standalone light meal
• A protein-rich side dish
• A lunchbox option
• A brunch addition

For a complete meal, you can pair it with other family favorites like a comforting patisson casserole or crispy homemade potato pancakes for a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Easy Variations

To keep things interesting, you can:

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach
• Mix in diced cooked chicken or turkey
• Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking
• Use feta or ricotta for a softer flavor

Pairing Suggestions

Because the dish is creamy and mild, it pairs nicely with:

• Light vegetable soups
• Fresh tomato or cucumber salad
• Toasted bread or flatbread
• Roasted potatoes or rice

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Yes. Simply thaw the broccoli first and drain any excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.

Q: How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery?
Make sure the broccoli is well-drained after cooking. Excess moisture is the most common cause of a loose texture.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble it and store it covered in the fridge for several hours before baking.

Q: Is this broccoli casserole suitable for toddlers?
Yes. The soft texture and mild flavor are very toddler-friendly. Just ensure broccoli pieces are tender and easy to chew.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or even grated carrots work very well.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or pan.