Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz. Bergenost cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Casserole dish
- Large pot for boiling broccoli
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add milk and heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
5. Add grated Bergenost cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked broccoli to the skillet and stir until coated in the cheese sauce.
7. Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a casserole dish.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
10. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 350mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or Brussels sprouts.
- Bergenost cheese can be substituted with any soft, creamy cheese such as brie or camembert.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the casserole for a meatier version.
- Top the casserole with sliced tomatoes before baking for a colorful twist.
- Add chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to drain the broccoli well after boiling to prevent excess water in the casserole.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
- For a smoother sauce, blend the cheese sauce in a blender before adding the broccoli.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Garlic bread
- Grilled chicken
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the casserole is too dry, add more milk or cream to the cheese sauce.
- If the casserole is too watery, drain the broccoli more thoroughly before adding to the cheese sauce.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the broccoli thoroughly to prevent any harmful bacteria.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Bergenost cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that originated in Norway. It is made from a blend of cow's milk and cream, and has a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
Flavor Profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot as a side dish or main course.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A