Say Cheese

Lately, I have been thinking about casseroles. I don't know why, but that cheesy goodness has been on my mind. So last night, in an effort to clean out the fridge a bit, I made a delicious broccoli casserole, well maybe it was more of a gratin. Either way it was an absolutely delicious side dish (or even entrée if added in some chicken or something, yum). Seriously, I mean well how could anything drowning in cheese sauce be bad, but this was extra amazing. I will warn you that this recipe doesn't make a super ton, it was just enough for the boyfriend and I, so feel free to expand the recipe as you see fit.

Broccoli Gratin/Casserole:
4 cups of broccoli, chopped
1 tbsp of butter
2 tbsp of flour
1 1/2 cups of chicken broth
3/4 cup of whole-milk or part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded.
1/4 cup of bread crumbs
Salt, Pepper and Crushed red pepper flakes.

Pre-heat the oven to 375. Spread the broccoli in a greased (Pam-ed) baking dish and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and flakes. Over medium heat, melt butter in a small pot. When the butter is melted whisk in the flour (hey, your making rue), it will be very thick. Whisk in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and continue whisking until the rue and stock are combined and the sauce/gravy is thick. In batches toss the cheese in the pot and whisk in to melt. When all the cheese is melted in, taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as necessary. Pour cheese sauce over the broccoli and toss lightly to spread the mixture evenly. Top with the bread crumbs and bake uncovered until broccoli is tender and top is golden, about 30 minutes. Serve and enjoy.

Happy Eating.