Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli Casserole

Serves 2.

Mmm.. this was very good. And anything that I can make ahead of time gets bonus points in my book. It helps that I like broccoli steamed and lightly seasoned, so adding in a rich, cheesey cream sauce makes it even harder to resist. Plus, the buttery cracker topping is oh so good.

1 head broccoli, chopped

1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

1 T. butter, melted

1/2 c. crushed Ritz Crackers

cream sauce:

1/2 T. butter

1-1/2 T. flour

1/4 c. chicken broth

1/4 c. milk

salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in flour to form a thick, almost doughy consistency. Add chicken broth and milk slowly, stirring consistently. Bring to a gentle boil until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Add cheddar cheese and stir until smooth.

Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil; add chopped broccoli and after 1 minute, remove from heat and drain. Add broccoli to cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cracker crumbs and butter. Bake for 30 minutes.