Broccoli Cheese Casserole

In 1866, businessman and French-Canadian immigrant Elmire Jolicoeur invented the modern-day casserole in his cottage in Berlin, New Hampshire. But did you know that casseroles have an even older history? According to the findings of a museum in Paris, France, the tradition of baking several ingredients together in a “dinner-cake” dates back to the 14^th century!

Casseroles are traditionally heavier dishes, meant to last for days. While this recipe yields quite a bit, it’s light, healthy, and perfect for any diet!

INGREDIENTS

• 20 oz. fresh broccoli florets
• 8 oz. cream cheese (fat-free)
• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• ½ tsp. ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp. salt
• ¼ cup grated parmesan

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Add the broccoli to a large microwave safe bowl along with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and microwave for 2 minutes. Let sit, covered, for 2 minutes.
3. Add the cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a small bowl and mix well to combine.
4. Stir the cream cheese mixture into the steamed broccoli until well combined.
5. Transfer broccoli to an 8×8 baking dish and sprinkle the Parmesan over the top.
6. Bake for 10 minutes.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS

Serves 4 (1 cup servings).

RECIPE SOURCE

This tasty recipe was courtesy of “That Low Carb Life.”

Broccoli Cheese Casserole