Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings (about 2 cups)
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups)

Instructions:

  1. Steam or blanch broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss onion rings in the flour mixture.
  3. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry onion rings in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  5. Whisk flour into the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
  6. Combine broccoli and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with crispy fried onions (if using).
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.