Oven-Baked Broccoli

To prepare a delicious baked broccoli recipe, we start by carefully washing the broccoli florets. It is essential to ensure that they are clean to eliminate any impurities or pesticides. After washing, we cut them into smaller florets so that they cook evenly. In a large pot, we bring water to a boil and add a tablespoon of salt. When the water is boiling, we add the broccoli florets and let them boil for about 5 minutes. This blanching process will help retain the vibrant color of the broccoli and make the texture more pleasant.

After 5 minutes, we remove the florets from the water and let them drain in a colander to ensure that no excess water remains. Meanwhile, we prepare the baking dish. We grease the bottom and sides of the dish with butter, making sure it is evenly covered. Then, we sprinkle breadcrumbs on the bottom and sides of the dish to create a delicious and crunchy crust.

We arrange the broccoli florets in the dish, taking care to place them as evenly as possible so that each piece is covered with cheese. Over the broccoli, we sprinkle a generous layer of grated mozzarella, which will provide a rich flavor and creamy texture. We also add grated parmesan, which will bring extra flavor and an intense aroma. Here and there, we place a few small pieces of butter, which will melt during baking and contribute to creating a delicious crust.

After adding the first layer of cheese, we repeat the process: we sprinkle breadcrumbs again, followed by another layer of mozzarella. This layering will ensure a crunchy crust and a delicious interior filled with melted cheese. The last layer of breadcrumbs is optional, so for those who prefer a less crunchy version, they can skip it and leave only the mozzarella cheese on top.

We preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish in the oven. We let the broccoli bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top turns golden and the crust becomes crunchy. The aroma that will fill the kitchen during baking will be irresistible and mouth-watering.

When ready, we take the dish out of the oven and let the preparation cool for a few minutes before serving. This baked broccoli recipe is not only healthy but also extremely tasty, perfect as a side dish or even as a main course. Enjoy your meal!