The Broccoli Thing (Back to Basics Version) This is the “I don’t have seasonings” edition. If you have salt and pepper, you’re qualified. Congratulations. What you need: • 2 lbs ground meat (I did 1 lb hot Italian sausage + 1 lb ground beef) • 2 (14 oz) bags microwaveable broccoli florets • 8 oz cream cheese or 8 oz Alouette Garlic & Herb (highly recommend) • ½–¾ cup heavy cream • ~½ cup grated Parmesan (plus extra for topping) • 8 oz shredded mozzarella • Salt & pepper • Italian seasoning (optional if you’re feeling fancy) What you do: 1. Brown both meats together until crispy and fully cooked. The sausage already has flavor, so technically you don’t need anything else. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning if you want to show off. 2. Microwave broccoli just long enough (about 4 minutes) so you can chop it smaller. Chop it up so no one can “see” it. It’s about to be buried in cheese anyway. 3. Make the sauce: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese (or Alouette), Parmesan, and heavy cream. Add cream slowly until it’s the consistency of condensed soup. Salt and pepper to taste. 4. In a 9x13 baking dish: • Layer meat • Add chopped broccoli • Pour cheese sauce over everything 5. Top with: • 8 oz shredded mozzarella • A little more Parmesan (okay maybe a lot more) • Italian seasoning if you think you’re sophisticated 6. Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden. That’s it. Protein. Veggie. Cheese blanket. Your kids won’t even clock the broccoli. The Broccoli Thing. Still undefeated #thebroccolithing #lowcarb #recipe #cook #familydinner
