Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake

Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that transforms simple broccoli into a deliciously rich side or main dish. With a smooth cheese sauce and golden crispy topping, this bake is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a side dish for roasts.

What is Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake?

Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Bake is a cheesy, oven-baked dish made with blanched broccoli, a rich cheese sauce, and a crispy golden topping. This dish is versatile, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a great way to enjoy broccoli in a creamy, indulgent way.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich and cheesy: A creamy cheese sauce coats the broccoli perfectly.
• Crunchy golden topping: A crispy, golden breadcrumb and cheese topping adds texture.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this delicious bake.
• Perfect side or main dish: Works well with roasts, grilled meats, or as a vegetarian main.
• Easy to prepare ahead: Can be assembled in advance and baked later.

Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake

For the Broccoli Bake:

• 1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tbsp plain flour
• 300ml whole milk
• 150ml double cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 100g Cheddar cheese (grated)
• 50g Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Topping:

• 50g breadcrumbs (panko or fresh)
• 50g Cheddar cheese (grated)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

• Heat butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until soft.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
• Add the Dijon mustard, Cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, stirring until melted and thickened.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

• Place the blanched broccoli in a greased baking dish.
• Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Cheddar, and olive oil.
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the broccoli and cheese sauce.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving.
• Serve hot as a side dish or a vegetarian main.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake

• Roast chicken or beef: A great side for Sunday roasts.
• Grilled fish or salmon: The creamy sauce pairs well with light proteins.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy sauce.
• Fresh salad: Balances the richness with a refreshing contrast.
• Mashed potatoes: A great comfort food combination.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Bake

• Blanch but don’t overcook broccoli: Keep it slightly firm for the best texture.
• Whisk sauce continuously: Prevents lumps and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Use a mix of cheeses: Combining Cheddar and Parmesan adds depth of flavor.
• Crisp up the topping: Broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra golden crust.
• Make ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate, then bake when needed.

What Are Variations of Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake?

• Add cauliflower: Mix broccoli and cauliflower for variety.
• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for heat.
• Extra veggies: Stir in mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Protein boost: Add shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Broccoli Bake?

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes until hot.

How Can I Reheat Broccoli Bake Without Losing Texture?

• Oven method: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes.
• Microwave method: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Air fryer method: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes for a crispy top.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

• Use low-fat milk and cheese: Reduces fat while keeping it creamy.
• Skip the cream: Use Greek yogurt or extra milk for a lighter sauce.
• Add more vegetables: Include mushrooms, carrots, or leeks.
• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs: Add fiber and a crunchy topping.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g

FAQs

How Do I Stop Broccoli Bake from Becoming Watery?

To prevent a watery broccoli bake, blanch the broccoli for only 3-4 minutes and drain it well before adding it to the dish. Excess moisture can make the sauce runny, so pat the broccoli dry with a paper towel before baking.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it should be thawed and drained well to remove excess water. Blot it dry before mixing it with the cheese sauce to maintain the creamy consistency of the bake.

What Is the Best Cheese for a Broccoli Bake?

A combination of Cheddar and Parmesan works best. Cheddar provides a creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor. You can also mix in Gruyère or mozzarella for extra richness.

Can I Make Broccoli Bake Ahead of Time?

Yes, the dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to serve, bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Bake is the perfect comfort food side dish, blending creamy cheese sauce with tender broccoli and a crispy golden topping.

Try it today for a satisfying and delicious bake!

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