If you’re ready for a meal that combines comfort with nourishment, look no further than Healthy Broccoli Casserole. This lighter twist on the classic casserole delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave, packed with vibrant broccoli and a Greek yogurt base for extra protein. Each bite is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish you’ll turn to again and again—whether as a weeknight staple, special holiday side, or meal-prep star.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every item in this casserole brings something to the table, from subtle warmth to creamy body or irresistible crunch. These simple, familiar ingredients come together in perfect harmony—the kind of recipe you’ll memorize after just a few tries, knowing you can trust each element to create something special.
- Fresh broccoli florets (4 cups): Crisp, earthy broccoli forms the hearty, green base of this casserole—steam just until vivid and tender for the best texture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Essential for sautéing, olive oil lends a hint of richness and helps bring out the sweetness in onions.
- Small onion, finely chopped (1): Onion gives the casserole a gentle aromatic backbone, mellowing as it cooks and blending seamlessly into the creamy filling.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A quick sauté infuses the whole casserole with savory depth—don’t skip this step!
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): This is the secret to a creamy texture without heavy cream, adding extra protein and a lovely tang.
- Low-fat milk (1/2 cup): Helps loosen the filling so it’s luscious but not dense, keeping things light.
- Large egg, beaten (1): Acts as a binder, holding everything together in glorious, cheesy harmony.
- Shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, divided (1 cup): Melts beautifully throughout and on top, offering plenty of cheesy flavor with less fat.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Brings a sharp, salty note and adds a little extra golden color on top.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for pulling all the flavors together—taste before adding more!
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle bite for balanced seasoning.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): For warmth and subtle smokiness—it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
- Whole wheat breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional): If you love a little crunch, scatter these on top for a toasty, golden crown.
How to Make Healthy Broccoli Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and slides out in perfect squares every time. Prepping your dish first lets you focus on layering flavors without worrying about a sticky cleanup later.
Step 2: Steam or Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a saucepan of water to a boil or use a steamer. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they turn a vivid green and are barely tender. Immediately drain them well—this step locks in their color and keeps them from turning mushy during baking, making sure your Healthy Broccoli Casserole has that signature bite.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Allow it to sauté for about 4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute longer—you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with a cozy, savory aroma. This base infuses the casserole with gentle, rounded flavor from the very start.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Creamy Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, beaten egg, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, all of the Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended—this luscious sauce will coat every piece of broccoli, enveloping it in flavor while staying light and satisfying.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Stir the sautéed onions and garlic into the creamy mixture, spreading their sweetness and depth throughout. Gently fold in the drained broccoli florets, making sure each floret gets a generous coating. Take your time here—the more evenly everything is mixed, the better each bite will taste!
Step 6: Assemble and Top
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese over the top, then add the whole wheat breadcrumbs if you’re using them. This final sprinkling becomes golden and irresistible in the oven, making the Healthy Broccoli Casserole as pretty as it is flavorful.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a hot, bubbly center and a golden brown top. When done, let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes so it sets up slightly—making serving neat slices a breeze.
How to Serve Healthy Broccoli Casserole
Garnishes
Add a flourish of fresh chopped parsley or a scattering of extra Parmesan right before serving. Not only do these garnishes provide a burst of color and flavor, they make your Healthy Broccoli Casserole look restaurant-worthy and extra inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole can shine solo, but a crisp green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or a hearty lentil soup turn it into a satisfying meal. For a protein boost, serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a balanced plate everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins for single-serve delights. Or try pairing leftovers with poached eggs at brunch! The versatility of Healthy Broccoli Casserole means it’s right at home on both holiday buffets and easy weeknight tables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Healthy Broccoli Casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or sides throughout the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions or as a whole. Cool completely after baking, wrap in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve its creamy, tender texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese or breadcrumbs before reheating to revive that irresistible topping!
FAQs
Can I make Healthy Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready, just bake it straight from the fridge (add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time, if needed).
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch. Thaw and drain as much moisture as possible, then proceed with the recipe. Fresh broccoli has a slightly better texture, but you’ll still end up with a delicious result.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Try swapping in light sour cream or plain low-fat yogurt. Both options keep the casserole creamy and light while preserving tangy flavor—just be sure to choose unsweetened varieties.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
It’s easy! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely. All other ingredients in Healthy Broccoli Casserole are naturally gluten-free, so you only need to check the topping.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Definitely—add in shredded cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas right along with the broccoli for a heartier dish that transforms Healthy Broccoli Casserole into a standout main course.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy this Healthy Broccoli Casserole as much as I do—it’s proof that wholesome comfort food can be every bit as flavorful and satisfying as the classics. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday table, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone back for seconds. Give it a try, and let it become a favorite in your kitchen, too!
Print
Healthy Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this healthy and delicious broccoli casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. With Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheddar, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect side for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Casserole:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli for 3-4 minutes, then drain.
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet, sauté onion until softened, then add garlic.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine Greek yogurt, milk, egg, cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add onions, garlic, and broccoli.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cauliflower for some or all of the broccoli.
- For extra protein, add shredded cooked chicken.
- Use panko instead of breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
