Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Bauernkäse cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. dried thyme
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the heavy cream, grated Bauernkäse cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the blanched broccoli florets to the skillet and stir to coat with the cheese sauce.
6. Transfer the broccoli mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 315
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli florets can be substituted with cauliflower florets or a mix of both.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Bauernkäse cheese can be substituted with Gouda or Cheddar cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a heartier meal.
- Top the casserole with sliced tomatoes before baking.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
Tips and tricks:
- Blanching the broccoli before adding it to the cheese sauce will help it retain its bright green color.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the casserole before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the casserole with a side salad or crusty bread.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted potatoes or steamed rice would be great side dishes for this casserole.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the casserole to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Bauernkäse is a traditional German cheese made from raw cow's milk. It has a tangy, nutty flavor and is often used in casseroles and other baked dishes.
Flavor profiles:
This casserole has a creamy, cheesy sauce with hints of garlic, paprika, and thyme. The broccoli adds a fresh, slightly bitter flavor to balance out the richness of the cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole hot out of the oven with a side salad or crusty bread.
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Region: German