Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Prep Steps

• 3 heads broccoli into florets {do:cut}
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese {do:shred}
• 1 cup cheddar cheese {do:shred}
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers {do:crush}

Blanch the Broccoli

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add to a large pot of boiling water and cook for 3 minutes...

• 3 heads broccoli, cut into florets

Drain and set aside.

The Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together until a roux forms, about 1 minute...

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Whisk in...

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt{tip:We test with Morton kosher salt. Using table salt? Use about 3/4 as much. Diamond Crystal? Use about 1 1/2 times as much.}
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Note: Heavy cream works in place of the milk for a richer sauce.

Reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in...

• 1 cup sour cream

Assemble & Bake

Arrange the broccoli in a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the sauce over it. Sprinkle with...

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Bake uncovered 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Serve.