Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb Fior di Monte cheese, shredded
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the shredded Fior di Monte cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
9. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 610mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fior di Monte cheese can be substituted with any other semi-soft cheese, such as Fontina or Gouda.
- Broccoli can be substituted with any other green vegetable, such as asparagus or green beans.
- Whole milk can be substituted with low-fat or skim milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a heartier meal.
- Top the casserole with sliced tomatoes before baking.
- Add cooked pasta to the casserole for a pasta-broccoli-cheese bake.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until it is tender but still slightly firm. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy in the casserole.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
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, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, on top of the casserole before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the casserole with a side salad or crusty bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, add more flour to thicken it.
- If the casserole is too dry, add more milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the casserole until it is heated through to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine since the 1950s. They are a convenient way to use up leftovers and create a hearty, one-dish meal.
Flavor profiles:
The Fior di Monte cheese adds a rich, creamy flavor to the casserole, while the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly bitter taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole as a main dish for a family dinner or potluck.
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