Easy Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake Recipe for Cozy Family Nights

Broccoli bake transforms ordinary vegetables into a culinary masterpiece that dances with flavor and comfort.

Sophisticated yet simple, this dish promises a delightful twist on traditional side dishes.

Green florets nestle beneath a golden, crunchy landscape of breadcrumbs and cheese.

Creamy textures merge with crisp elements, creating a harmonious symphony of taste and temperature.

Nutritious ingredients blend seamlessly, offering a wholesome experience that satisfies both hunger and imagination.

Home cooks will find this recipe surprisingly approachable, requiring minimal technical skill and basic kitchen equipment.

The result promises a crowd-pleasing creation that elevates everyday meals into something extraordinary: prepare to be amazed.

Broccoli Bake Add-Ins You’ll Love

• Spicy Kick Broccoli Fusion: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a fiery flavor boost. Increase cayenne pepper quantity to enhance heat levels and create a zesty vegetable experience.
• Mediterranean Herb Broccoli Bake: Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese and incorporate dried oregano, thyme, and basil into the breadcrumb mixture. Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an authentic Mediterranean profile.
• Protein-Packed Broccoli Casserole: Mix in cooked diced chicken or crispy bacon bits before adding the cheese sauce. Introduce shredded rotisserie chicken or crumbled turkey sausage to elevate protein content and create a more substantial meal.
• Nutty Vegetarian Crunch: Swap Panko breadcrumbs with crushed almonds or pecans for additional texture. Incorporate nutritional yeast instead of cheese to maintain a rich, savory flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Closing Notes on Jamie’s Broccoli Bake

Cheese-laden broccoli bakes promise culinary magic in Jamie Oliver’s signature style.

Comfort meets nutrition through this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Panko crumbs add delightful crunch against creamy cheese sauce.

Kitchen aromas will tantalize dinner guests with homemade deliciousness.

Broccoli transforms from simple vegetable to gourmet masterpiece with minimal effort.

Those seeking delectable side dishes should dive into this recipe, share its charm across social platforms, spark conversation with fellow epicureans, and inspire weekend cooking adventures.

Why Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Bake Is So Cozy

• Savor Cheesy Comfort: Dive into a creamy, indulgent broccoli bake that wraps you in warmth and delivers a luxurious cheese experience with every single bite.
• Master Quick Weeknight Magic: Whip up this impressive dish in just 45 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy home cooks craving a nutritious and delectable meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Texture Explosion Guaranteed: Enjoy an incredible contrast between the silky-smooth cheese sauce and the crispy, golden Panko breadcrumb topping that adds an irresistible crunch to tender broccoli florets.
• Nutritious Meets Delicious: Transform a humble vegetable into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece that sneaks healthy broccoli into a meal so tasty, even vegetable skeptics will be asking for seconds.

What Goes Into Jamie’s Broccoli Bake

• Broccoli: Fresh green vegetable that forms the base of the dish, crisp-tender texture is key.
• Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a smooth sauce base.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty depth to the topping and sauce.
• Milk: Creates a creamy, smooth sauce foundation.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Delivers a light, crispy golden topping with excellent crunch.
• White Whole Wheat Flour: Thickens the sauce and adds subtle nutty undertones.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile.
• Black Pepper: Adds warm, spicy background note.
• Mustard: Provides tangy depth to the sauce.
• Cayenne Pepper (Optional): Introduces optional subtle heat and warmth.

Make Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Bake Easily

Step 1: Preheat The Oven

Heat the oven to 400°F, preparing for a delicious cooking experience.

Step 2: Melt Initial Butter

Melt of butter in a large, oven-safe pan like cast iron or a wide, deep skillet.

Step 3: Create Crispy Topping

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese

Set the mixture aside for later use.

Step 4: Prepare Broccoli

Boil broccoli in a large pot for 3 minutes until it reaches a crisp-tender texture. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make Roux Base

Melt the remaining of butter in the pan. Sprinkle white whole wheat flour and whisk for 1 minute until it develops a golden color.

Step 6: Create Creamy Sauce

• Salt
• Mustard
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper (optional)

Step 7: Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in cheese, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.

Step 8: Combine Broccoli

Mix the broccoli into the cheese sauce, ensuring each floret is evenly coated. Spread the mixture uniformly in the pan.

Step 9: Add Crispy Topping

Sprinkle the Panko and Parmesan mixture evenly over the broccoli.

Step 10: Bake To Perfection

Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns light golden brown.

Step 11: Broil For Extra Crispiness

Optional: Place the pan under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve an extra crispy top.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious broccoli bake!

Tips for a Creamy Broccoli Bake with Crunch

• Savor the Seasonal Spark: Choose locally grown broccoli during peak harvest for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Slice Smart: Cut broccoli florets into uniform sizes to guarantee consistent cooking and appealing texture.
• Cheese Charm: Grate cheese moments before adding to preserve its sharp, tangy essence and prevent clumping.
• Temperature Timing: Let ingredients reach room temperature beforehand to promote even cooking and melding of flavors.
• Herb Harmony: Chop fresh herbs just before sprinkling to release their most intense aromatic oils and vibrant taste.

Keep Broccoli Bake Fresh for Later

• Freezer Method: Divide leftover broccoli bake into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each portion tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place inside airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain optimal taste. Label containers with the date to track freshness.
• Refrigerator Method: Transfer remaining broccoli bake to a sealed glass or ceramic container with a tight-fitting lid. Position the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf, to extend its preservation. Consume within three days for the best flavor and texture.
• Reheating Method: Thaw frozen broccoli bake overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Bake delivers comfort with Mediterranean flair, blending crisp broccoli, creamy cheese, and golden breadcrumbs into a satisfying side dish. Hearty and simple, you’ll savor each cheesy, herb-infused bite of this delightful vegetable celebration.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 5 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets (about 1.25 pounds or 567 grams)
• 1 ¾ cups non-fat milk (414 milliliters)
• ½ cup freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese (50 grams)

Breadcrumb and Cheese Topping:

• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs (60 grams)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (25 grams)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (42 grams)

Seasonings and Thickeners:

• ¼ cup white whole wheat flour (30 grams)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C), preparing for a delectable culinary experience.
2. In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, creating a smooth cooking surface.
3. Combine Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl, setting aside this crispy mixture.
4. Blanch fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for 3 minutes until they reach a vibrant, tender-crisp texture. Drain and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
6. Sprinkle white whole wheat flour into the melted butter, whisking continuously for one minute to create a fragrant roux.
7. Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
8. Season the sauce with salt, ground mustard, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for an optional kick.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted and incorporated.
10. Gently fold the blanched broccoli into the cheese sauce, ensuring each floret is evenly coated.
11. Distribute the broccoli mixture evenly across the skillet, creating a uniform layer.
12. Sprinkle the prepared Panko and Parmesan mixture over the top, covering the entire surface.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crispy.
14. For an extra-crisp finish, broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

• Elevate your broccoli game by selecting firm, bright green florets with tight, compact heads for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Skip wilted or yellowing stalks that signal aging and potential bitterness in your final roasted creation.
• Washing thoroughly removes hidden dirt and debris, ensuring a clean and pure vegetable experience.
• Pat broccoli completely dry with paper towels to prevent steaming and promote perfect caramelization during roasting.
• Room temperature butter melts more smoothly and distributes evenly across broccoli surfaces for consistent seasoning.
• Salted butter can overwhelm delicate broccoli notes, so unsalted provides better control of overall dish saltiness.
• Cast iron pans retain heat magnificently, creating gorgeous golden-brown edges and crispy texture.
• Preheating your pan guarantees immediate sizzling contact and helps develop beautiful caramelized spots.
• Spread broccoli pieces in a single layer without crowding to achieve maximum roasting potential.
• Avoid cutting florets too small, which can lead to burning and loss of substantial vegetable texture.
• Oven temperatures around 425°F provide ideal conditions for transforming broccoli into a crispy, flavorful side dish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 170 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 130 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg