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Cheesy Broccoli Pretzel Casserole: A Comforting Twist on Classic Casseroles

Enjoy this Cheesy Broccoli Pretzel Casserole — a creamy, golden comfort bake topped with soft pretzel rolls.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Casserole Filling:
  • 3 tablespoonsolive oil
  • 1 tablespoonbutter
  • 1yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3cloves garlic (2minced,1grated for topping)
  • ¼ cupall-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoonpaprika
  • ¼ teaspooncayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoonschopped fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
  • 3 cupsvegetable or chicken broth
  • 4 cupschopped broccoli florets
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cupswhole milk
  • 2½ cupsshredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • For the Pretzel Dough:
  • ¾ cupwarm water
  • 2¼ teaspoonsinstant yeast
  • 2½ cupsall-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
  • 4 tablespoonsmelted butter (3for the dough,1reserved for topping)
  • ¼ cupbaking soda (for boiling)
  • 1large egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • Pretzel salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Dough
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 3 tablespoons melted butter.
  3. Add flour and mix until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  4. If it feels sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  5. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm spot for 15–20 minutes while you start the filling.
  6. Step 2: Cook the Broccoli Mixture
  7. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  8. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
  9. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
  10. Add minced garlic, paprika, cayenne, and thyme, stirring for another minute.
  11. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes, forming a golden paste.
  12. Slowly whisk in the broth to create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  13. Add the chopped broccoli, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, uncovered, until the broccoli is just tender.
  14. Step 3: Make It Creamy
  15. Pour in the milk and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  16. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
  17. If your skillet isn’t ovenproof, transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
  18. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese on top.
  19. Step 4: Form and Boil the Pretzel Rolls
  20. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil.
  21. On a floured surface, divide the dough into 8 equal balls.
  22. Add the baking soda to the boiling water, then drop the dough balls in, 4 at a time.
  23. Boil each batch for 30 seconds, then lift out using a slotted spoon.
  24. Place the pretzel balls directly over the cheesy broccoli filling.
  25. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with pretzel salt.
  26. Step 5: Bake the Casserole
  27. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pretzel tops are deep golden and the casserole is bubbling.
  28. The rolls should be slightly crisp on the outside and fluffy inside.
  29. Step 6: Add the Garlic Butter Finish
  30. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon melted butter with the grated garlic and a pinch of thyme.
  31. Brush this mixture over the warm pretzel rolls just before serving for an aromatic finish.
  • Author: Chef mia