Description: Creamy, cheesy broccoli filling topped with golden, buttery biscuits. This comforting casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional, for added protein and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 can (16 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the biscuits bake to a perfect golden brown. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. A glass or ceramic dish works best for even heat distribution.
Step 2: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. The butter adds richness and flavor to the base of the casserole. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Softening the onion releases its natural sweetness and provides a flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The garlic infuses the butter and onions with a savory aroma.
Step 4: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and preventing a grainy texture. The flour creates a roux, which is the base for a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Gradually add the chicken broth and whole milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Ensure there are no lumps by whisking vigorously. The chicken broth adds depth of flavor, while the milk creates a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked chicken (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the cheese is melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Step 7: Pour the broccoli cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Arrange the refrigerated biscuit dough pieces evenly over the top of the broccoli mixture. You can use the biscuits as they are or flatten them slightly for a more even coverage.
Step 9: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic powder. Brush this mixture over the biscuits, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step adds a golden color and a delicious garlic flavor to the biscuit topping.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through. The biscuits should be puffed up and the casserole should be bubbly around the edges.
Step 11: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Broccoli Cheddar Biscuit Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and straightforward steps. The combination of creamy, cheesy broccoli with the fluffy, golden biscuits is simply irresistible. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a satisfying and delicious meal. The optional addition of shredded chicken makes it a complete and filling dish, packed with protein and nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main course.
- Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Accompany with a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the cheesy sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broccoli mixture.
Tips:
- For best results, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli, as it will become mushy. It should be tender-crisp.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water.
- If you want a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- To prevent the biscuits from browning too quickly, tent the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables, such as cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
COOKING Rating: Easy
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving, without chicken)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 15-20g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
The Broccoli Cheddar Biscuit Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights, while its delicious flavor and satisfying texture make it a hit with everyone. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm you up on a cold day or a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole is a winner. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, comforting, and utterly delicious meal!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting from cold. This is a great way to save time when preparing for a party or busy weeknight.
Q2: Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can easily substitute it with other types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all work well. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Q3: Is it necessary to add the cooked chicken?
A: No, the cooked chicken is optional. It adds protein and makes the casserole a more complete meal, but it can easily be omitted for a vegetarian version. If you choose to omit the chicken, you might want to add another vegetable, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to add more substance to the casserole.
Q4: Can I use a different type of biscuit dough?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of refrigerated biscuit dough. Flaky biscuits or buttermilk biscuits would both work well. You can even use homemade biscuit dough if you prefer. Just make sure the biscuits are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
Q5: How can I make this casserole healthier?
A: There are several ways to make this casserole healthier. You can use reduced-fat cheese, whole wheat flour, and skim milk to reduce the fat and calorie content. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost the nutritional value. Consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream as a topping.
