Casseroles > Cheese Casseroles

String Cheese and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of broccoli florets
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife

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, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

4. Add the flour to the saucepan and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture turns golden brown.

5. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.

7. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.

8. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

9. In the baking dish, spread half of the cooked broccoli florets in an even layer.

10. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the broccoli.

11. Repeat with the remaining broccoli and cheese sauce.

12. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

13. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 362
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 574mg
Sugar: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli: You can use other vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Cheese: You can use any type of shredded cheese you like such as cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss.

Variations:
- Meat: You can add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon to the casserole for extra protein.
- Spices: You can add spices such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until it is tender but still has a slight crunch.
- Use a whisk to make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers 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 or basil over the top of the casserole for a pop of color.

Pairings:
- Serve the casserole with a side salad or crusty bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice pilaf

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add a little more cheese to thicken it up.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the casserole until it is heated through to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

Food history:
- Casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine since the 1950s.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the casserole as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or holiday gathering.

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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Nutty