Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb Liederkranz cheese, grated
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
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 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
5. Add grated Liederkranz cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Add cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
10. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 470
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Cholesterol: 116mg
Sodium: 635mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 16g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Liederkranz cheese can be substituted with any soft, creamy cheese such as brie or camembert.
- Broccoli can be substituted with any other green vegetable such as asparagus or green beans.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a heartier meal.
- Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed potato chips for a crunchy topping.
- Add diced onions or garlic to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the broccoli until it is tender but still slightly firm to avoid it becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Grate the Liederkranz cheese while it is cold to make it easier to handle.
- Use a whisk to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
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 until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top of the casserole before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the breadcrumbs are not browning, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the casserole to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Liederkranz cheese was first produced in the United States in the late 1800s. It is a soft, creamy cheese with a pungent aroma and flavor.
Flavor profiles:
This casserole is rich and creamy with a nutty, slightly tangy flavor from the Liederkranz cheese. The broccoli adds a fresh, slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
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