Broccoli Casserole: a rich meal ready in no time

This broccoli casserole is an ideal make-ahead dish. Broccoli florets are surrounded by tasty egg, bacon, and cheese, which then cook up solid in the oven. It’s a bit like a quiche without the pastry! Prepare in advance and keep in the fridge until the next day, then all it takes is 35-40 minutes in the oven and you have a tasty meal ready.

Eggs are full of protein and other nutrients, and broccoli provides vitamins and fiber. This is a filling meal that can also be sliced and eaten cold – this makes it ideal for bag lunches.

Instructions

Spray the bottom of a 13×9-inch (3-quart) baking dish with cooking spray, or grease well with oil.

Step 1

Step 1

Spray the bottom of a 13x9-inch (3-quart) baking dish with cooking spray, or grease well with oil.

In a large bowl, beat eggs and milk with a whisk. Stir in garlic, salt, pepper flakes, and cheese.

Add broccoli florets and bacon to the baking dish, spreading over the top evenly.

Step 2

Step 2

In a large bowl, beat eggs and milk with a whisk. Stir in garlic, salt, pepper flakes, and cheese.

Pour egg and cheese on top, gently stirring the mixture to distribute. Cover and refrigerate about 8 hours or overnight.

If you want to cook the casserole straight away, cook for 30-35 minutes before checking if it’s done. Insert a knife in the center, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Step 3

Step 3

Add broccoli florets and bacon to the baking dish, spreading over the top evenly.

Heat oven to 350°F/160C fan/gas mark 4.

Step 4

Step 4

Pour egg and cheese on top, gently stirring the mixture to distribute. Cover and refrigerate about 8 hours or overnight.

Uncover, then bake 35 to 40 minutes or until just set and a knife inserted near center comes out clean. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Step 5

Step 5

If you want to cook the casserole straight away, cook for 30-35 minutes before checking if it’s done. Insert a knife in the center, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Notes

To save time, buy precooked bacon in the refrigerated sandwich meats section.