Broccoli Cheese Pie

Broccoli Cheese Pie is the epitome of comfort food, offering a harmonious blend of savory broccoli, earthy mushrooms, and gooey cheddar cheese, all nestled in a buttery pie crust. This timeless dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or planning a gathering with friends and family. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art of making the perfect Broccoli Cheese Pie, from selecting quality ingredients to mastering the baking techniques. Get ready to indulge in the warmth and flavor of this classic dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

Ingredients

Produce:

• 1 head Broccoli, fresh
• 1/4 lb Mushrooms, fresh
• 1 Onion

Refrigerated:

• 3 Eggs

Condiments:

• 1/4 tsp Dry mustard

Baking & Spices:

• 7/8 cup All-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp Salt

Dairy:

• 5/16 cup Butter (equivalent to 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp)
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Half-and-half cream

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
2. Prepare the pie crust by combining the all-purpose flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit the size of the pie dish.
4. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the greased pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
5. In a large skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and mushrooms, cooking until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
6. While the vegetables are cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender, then drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half cream, dry mustard, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
8. Spread the cooked onion and mushroom mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared pie crust. Top with the chopped broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top of the vegetables and cheese, ensuring even distribution.
10. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential spills) and transfer to the preheated oven.
11. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
12. Remove the Broccoli Cheese Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations

• For added flavor, sauté minced garlic with the onion and mushrooms.
• Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Add cooked bacon or ham for an extra protein boost and smoky flavor.
• Substitute fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for the ground nutmeg for a different flavor dimension.
• Serve the pie with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flair.

Keto and Low Carb Versions

If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of Broccoli Cheese Pie with a few simple substitutions:

• Replace the all-purpose flour in the pie crust with almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a low-carb option.
• Use heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk instead of half-and-half cream to reduce the carb content.
• Omit the crust altogether and bake the filling in a greased pie dish for a crustless version.
• Increase the amount of eggs and cheese in the filling to enhance the protein and fat content.

With these modifications, you can create a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Broccoli Cheese Pie that is both satisfying and delicious.

In conclusion, Broccoli Cheese Pie is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and wholesome vegetables, it’s a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. By following this easy-to-make recipe and exploring the various cook notes and variations, you can create Broccoli Cheese Pie that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this savory delight? Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to be a hit at any mealtime!

Savor the warmth and flavor of Broccoli Cheese Pie with every bite. With its buttery crust, creamy filling, and hearty vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting goodness of this classic recipe!