If you’re looking for a healthy, high-protein broccoli cheddar casserole that’s packed with flavor and low in fat, you’re in the right place! This casserole recipe is perfect for meal prep, made with fat-free cheddar cheese and fat-free cottage cheese for a protein boost, and air-fried to perfection. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal to feed the family, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

-High in protein: Each serving contains over 20g of protein.

-Low in fat: The fat content is low without sacrificing flavor by using fat-free cheddar and cottage cheese.

-Quick and easy: This casserole is air-fried for faster cooking and crispy edges instead of baking.

-Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week!

Ingredients

– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 cup fat-free cheddar cheese, shredded

– 1 cup fat-free cottage cheese

– 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk

– 1 tsp Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)

– Salt and pepper, to taste

– Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

Prep Time: 10 minutes  

Cook Time: 15 minutes  

Servings: 4  

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.

2. Steam the broccoli until tender, about 4-5 minutes, and set aside.

3. In a blender or food processor, combine half of the fat-free cheddar cheese, fat-free cottage cheese, almond milk, and Creole seasoning. Blend until everything is well mixed and the cottage cheese reaches a smooth consistency.

4. In a baking dish, spray with non-stick cooking spray. Add the steamed broccoli, then add the cheese mixture and gently toss to coat.

5. Sprinkle the remaining fat free chese on top of the broccoli mixture, and season with salt and pepper if needed.

6. Air fry the casserole at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Remove from the air fryer, let it cool for a couple of minutes, and serve!

Using Frozen Broccoli:

1. Thaw the frozen broccoli completely, then drain it well to remove any excess water.
2. Pat the broccoli dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
3. Proceed with the recipe as directed, mixing the broccoli with the cheese and seasonings before air frying.

Macros (Per Serving)

Calories: 150  

Protein: 22g  

Carbs: 10g  

Fat: 2g  

Fiber: 3g  

Why Air Fry?

Air frying is a great alternative to traditional baking because it cooks your food faster while still giving it that crispy, golden finish. Plus, it’s more energy-efficient, and there’s no need to wait for the oven to preheat. This air fryer broccoli cheddar casserole will give you the perfect texture every time.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Casserole

– For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of paprika or garlic powder over the top before air frying.

– If you prefer your casserole a little creamier, add an extra tablespoon of almond milk.

– Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

– Strain the Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese can release a lot of moisture when cooked, which may lead to a watery casserole. To avoid this, place the cottage cheese in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth and let it drain for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the recipe. This will help remove excess liquid and give the casserole a creamier texture without extra water.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:

-Refrigerator: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving the texture.

-Freezing: Although this casserole is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This method keeps it fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

– Air Fryer: To bring back the crispy edges, reheat individual portions in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

– Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave individual servings on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes on medium power. Cover with a microwave-safe cover to avoid splatters and retain moisture.

– Oven: For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.

These tips will help maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and cheesy flavor for your next meal!

This high-protein broccoli cheddar casserole is a nutritious and easy-to-make dish that fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a low-fat, high-protein dinner option or a quick air fryer recipe, this casserole delivers on all fronts!

For more high-protein pescatarian recipes and meal-prep ideas, follow me on Instagram @melshealthybowl where I share step-by-step cooking videos, tips, and inspiration for your next healthy meal.

Remember to share and tag me on Instagram @melshealthybowl if you try this recipe!

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