blanket of melted cheese and crispy bacon. It’s a comforting, one-dish meal that’s perfect for any day of the week, offering a balanced combination of flavors and textures. The addition of sour cream adds a tangy creaminess to the dish, making it a satisfying comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a deliciously creamy casserole.
Ingredients:
- Red Potatoes, 3 pounds, cut into 1-inch pieces for quick and even cooking
- Butter, 4 tablespoons, at room temperature, to add richness
- Sour Cream, 1 cup, for a creamy texture and tangy flavor
- Kosher Salt, ½ to 1 teaspoon, adjusted to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper, ½ teaspoon, for a hint of spice
- Granulated Garlic or Garlic Powder, ½ teaspoon, for a mild, aromatic flavor
- Paprika, ½ teaspoon, for a touch of color and subtle warmth
- Broccoli, 1 medium-sized crown, cut into bite-size florets (about 2-3 cups), adding freshness and nutrition
- Cooked Chopped Chicken, 3 cups, a great use for leftovers or rotisserie chicken
- Bacon, 4 slices, cooked and crumbled, for a smoky crunch
- Shredded Cheese, 2 cups, divided (Cook’s Note: A blend of your favorite cheeses works well here, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix for more complexity)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Boil the Potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and cook until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot.
Mix the Creamy Base: To the drained potatoes, add the butter, sour cream, kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and paprika. Mash the mixture together until well combined but still chunky for texture.
Blanch the Broccoli: Bring another pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for about 1-2 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Combine the Casserole Mixture: Add the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, half of the shredded cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon to the potato mixture. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon on top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own but can be paired with a simple green salad for added freshness.
This Creamy Chicken, Potato, and Broccoli Casserole is a versatile recipe that you can tweak according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s a comforting meal that brings together the best of wholesome ingredients in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the blend of creamy, savory, and crispy textures with every delicious bite!
