Experience the ideal make-ahead Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe that your kids, partner, and friends will appreciate. It's sure to become your new BFF.
– 1 1/2 lb Broccoli crowns (some stem is fine) – 4 Tbsp butter – 1/4 cup all purpose flour – 2 cups half and half – salt – 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
If making immediately, preheat oven to 350F. Cut broccoli stems and all into bite-sized pieces. Plunge in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain, and cool in icy water.
Drain on a clean kitchen towel when cold. Stir flour into melted butter in a saucepan. Cook without browning for a few minutes, stirring regularly.
Whisk or stir in the half-and-half slowly until it thickens. No need to boil. To avoid sticking or burning, I use a silicone spatula toward the end.
Allow to cool for 2 minutes. Don't let the very hot sauce curdle the cheese. Stir slowly to melt 2 cups of cheese and smooth the sauce. Add salt to taste.
Toss broccoli with warm cheese sauce until coated, then place in baking dish. Add the last cup of cheese.
If making immediately, bake for 35-40 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and brown. For some extra browning, broil it slightly at the end.
If made ahead, foil and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking (2 hours) from the fridge. Make-ahead casseroles may take longer to bake.