Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Mustard-Bean Sauce & Herby Lemon Crumbs

Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Mustard-Bean Sauce & Herby Lemon Crumbs

The ultimate comfort bake — creamy, cheesy, and packed with veggie goodness.

This cheesy broccoli bake is the perfect side dish or a satisfying veggie main. Blanched broccoli is smothered in a creamy white bean and mustard sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs, and baked until bubbling and irresistible. Ideal for weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you want comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli & Sauce

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 x 400g can white beans (including the liquid)

• 1 tbsp hot mustard (like Dijon or English)

• 100g grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Olive oil

For the Lemon-Thyme Crumb

• ½ cup dried breadcrumbs

• Zest of ½ lemon

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

• Drizzle of olive oil

Method

1. Blanch the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce
Heat a little olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in the white beans and their liquid. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced. Stir through the mustard, season with salt and pepper, then blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Bake
Add the blanched broccoli to a baking dish. Pour over the mustard-bean sauce, then top with the grated cheddar cheese.

4. Make the Herby Crumb
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with lemon zest, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil until evenly coated. Scatter over the top of the broccoli and cheese.

5. Bake It
Top with a little extra cheese and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden, crisp, and bubbling.

Serving Notes
Serve hot with a crisp green salad or your favourite protein. This is comfort food at its best — and any leftovers reheat like a dream.

Want to bulk it out? Add cooked pasta or quinoa before baking for a heartier meal.

Enjoy – Del x

Looking for more delicious veggie recipes?
Try my Broccoli & Blue Cheese Soup next.