WeeknightPork

Savory Sausage and Broccoli Bake

A cheesy, comforting bake featuring savory sausage and tender broccoli, perfect for a quick family dinner.

Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Savory Sausage and Broccoli Bake

This Savory Sausage and Broccoli Bake is the kind of easy, comforting meal that hits all the right notes on a busy weeknight. It's cheesy, full of flavor from the sausage and garlic, and loaded with tender broccoli, all baked together in one dish. Minimal fuss, maximum satisfaction – what more could you ask for?

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  2. Step 2

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage (without casings) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.

  3. Step 3

    Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  4. Step 4

    Add broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then stir in 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Step 5

    Transfer the sausage and broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese.

  6. Step 6

    Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the broccoli is tender. If desired, broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra golden, crispy cheese.

  7. Step 7

    Let stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy on its own or with a side of crusty bread.

Tips

  • For a vegetarian option, swap sausage for white beans or mushrooms and add smoked paprika for depth.
  • To make this dish ahead, assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake for an extra 10-15 minutes when ready.
  • Don't overcook the broccoli in the skillet; it will finish cooking in the oven.

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