Introducing Mama Lu’s Broccoli Casserole, a delightful dish originating from the heart of southern cuisine, inspired by a recipe found in a renowned cookbook by Jane and Michael Stern, showcasing the diverse flavors of restaurants across the United States. This recipe, originally crafted in the cozy kitchens of Mama Lu’s, a charming eatery nestled somewhere in the warmth of Florida, brings a unique twist to the classic broccoli casserole, making it a staple on holiday tables and potluck gatherings for years to come. 🥦🧀
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients:
- 9 slices of cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1 egg 🥚
- 2 cups of milk 🥛
- 5 tablespoons of butter 🧈
- 1 tablespoon of sugar 🍬
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt 🧂
- 3 cups of chopped broccoli florets 🥦
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s adequately heated for the baking process.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Take a 9×13 glass Pyrex dish and generously butter it, ensuring the casserole won’t stick during baking.
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Layer the Bread Slices: Tear the slices of bread into bite-sized pieces and cover the bottom of the prepared baking dish with them. Depending on the size of your bread slices, you may need more or fewer slices to fully cover the bottom.
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Add the Broccoli: Arrange the chopped broccoli florets evenly on top of the bread slices, creating a flavorful layer that will infuse the casserole with vibrant green goodness.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients – cheddar cheese, egg, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Whisk or stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated, forming a creamy and flavorful mixture.
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Pour Over the Broccoli and Bread: Pour the prepared mixture over the broccoli and bread in the baking dish, ensuring that each bread piece gets a generous soaking and that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the casserole.
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Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to lock in the moisture and flavors, then place it in the preheated oven. Allow the casserole to bake for 35-40 minutes or until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is set in the center.
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Rest and Serve: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut into neat squares. After resting, slice the casserole into squares and serve it up to eager diners, ready to savor every delicious bite.
Mama Lu’s Broccoli Casserole is not just your ordinary side dish – it’s a culinary masterpiece that brings together the comforting flavors of cheese, broccoli, and a hint of sweetness in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, potluck dinners, or any occasion where good food and great company come together. Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of southern hospitality with this irresistible casserole recipe! 🍽️
