'Low Carb Comfort Blanket' has been my go-to. The cheesy, crispy top is just what we need on chilly nights!

No matter how hectic life gets, there's always room for comfort food. This low carb cheesy broccoli casserole brings together the midwestern love for hearty meals and a healthy twist on a classic. It's a dish that has graced many family tables during holiday dinners, but with this version, you can enjoy it without the carb overload. Whether you're juggling meetings or running errands, this casserole is a make-ahead delight that's both wholesome and satisfying.

This cheesy broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad featuring a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. Alternatively, roasted chicken or grilled fish would complement the casserole perfectly, making for a balanced meal. If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving it alongside some mashed cauliflower for a complete low-carb feast.

Servings: 4

4 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup almond flour (optional, for topping)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Steam the broccoli florets until they're tender but still crisp, around 5-6 minutes. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.

Reduce the heat to low, add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and combined with the onions and garlic.

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Gently fold in the steamed broccoli until it's coated with the cheesy mixture.

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. If using almond flour for extra crunch, sprinkle it evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked, diced chicken or crumbled bacon to the mix. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add some more veggies to the dish, diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be great additions. For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños can add a nice kick. Finally, if you're not strictly low-carb, crushed pork rinds can be used as an alternative, crispy topping instead of almond flour.