Creamy Artichoke and Broccoli Bake

The Broccoli and Artichoke Casserole recipe you’re interested in from lovewithrecipes.com combines the hearty flavors of artichoke hearts, creamy cheese, and tender broccoli, all baked to perfection. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe:

Broccoli and Artichoke Casserole

Recipe Details:

• Name: Broccoli and Artichoke Casserole
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Recipe Category: Cheese
• Keywords: Vegetable, < 60 Mins, Oven
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 574.5
• Rating: 5 stars (based on 1 review)
• Ingredients:
  • 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cups broccoli, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (for topping)
• Nutritional Information per Serving:
  • Calories: 574.5
  • Total Fat: 45.5g
    • Saturated Fat: 27.4g
  • Cholesterol: 123.4mg
  • Sodium: 894.1mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34.6g
    • Dietary Fiber: 9.6g
    • Sugars: 3.6g
  • Protein: 13.6g

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.

2. Layering:

   • Spread the drained and quartered artichoke hearts evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish.

3. Cream Cheese Mixture:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, cream cheese, and lemon juice until smooth and well blended.

4. Adding Broccoli:

   • Add the cooked and drained broccoli to the cream cheese mixture. Stir gently to coat the broccoli evenly.

5. Assembling:

   • Pour the broccoli and cream cheese mixture over the artichoke hearts in the casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Topping:

   • Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Baking:

   • Bake the casserole, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

8. Optional Seasonings:

   • For added flavor, consider sprinkling garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, or a dash of Tabasco sauce over the casserole before baking.

9. Serving:

   • Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It makes a delicious side dish or a main course for a vegetarian meal.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Cheesier: Add grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the bread crumbs for an extra cheesy topping.

• Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the cream cheese mixture for a fragrant twist.

• Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked chicken or ham for a heartier version of this casserole.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.

This Broccoli and Artichoke Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the wholesome goodness of vegetables. It’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners, offering a satisfying and nutritious addition to your meal. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures in every bite!