You need this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli in your life right now because it transforms humble florets into a cheesy, legendary side dish that will shock your dinner guests. I used to dread green vegetables until I discovered this savory blend that makes me secretly eat the whole batch before dinner, pretending the dog got to it first.

Incredibly easy preparation means minimal fuss and maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

A rich, savory flavor profile where sharp Parmesan meets pungent garlic and luscious creaminess that is truly irresistible.

The vibrant green florets, coated in a golden sauce, offer striking visual appeal, making this side dish suitable for any holiday table.

This versatile dish pairs flawlessly with roasted chicken, pan seared salmon, or a hearty beef stew for a complete and satisfying meal.

The Secret History of the World’s Best Broccoli

Broccoli often gets a bad reputation. It is the vegetable that children shun and adults begrudgingly push around their plates, usually boiled into sad submission or steamed until it achieves the texture of spongy disappointment. We have all been there, staring down a mound of dull green sadness, questioning our life choices and the necessity of nutrition. This recipe, however, is not about obligation; it is about edible redemption.

My quest began years ago, determined to conquer the blandness that plagues so many otherwise healthy sides. I sought a recipe that treated broccoli not as a nutritional afterthought but as a main event, enveloping it in a flavor blanket so cozy and rich that you forget it is even a vegetable. The solution arrived, as most great culinary solutions do, through copious amounts of cheese and garlic. This is the origin story of the truly great Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli, a dish so addictive it should come with a small warning label. Forget the boiled stuff; we are roasting this green giant to achieve crispy edges and then smothering it in a sauce thick enough to stop traffic.

Why Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Rules the Roost

The magic of this specific side dish lies in the layering of textures and flavors. We start with roasting, which brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli and creates those desirable, slightly charred tips. This prevents the mushiness that plagues traditional steamed recipes. Then comes the sauce: a decadent combination of roasted garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This sauce is not merely a topping; it is a velvety embrace, clinging to every little floret, ensuring every bite delivers that intensely savory punch.

Serving this savory parmesan broccoli immediately boosts the perceived quality of your entire meal. It makes a simple weeknight chicken breast feel like a gourmet dinner. This recipe requires only common pantry staples and about thirty minutes of your time, proving that the most magnificent meals often require the least effort. The balance of sharp, salty cheese against the mellow heat of the garlic makes this broccoli a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters at the table. Get ready to witness a phenomenon: people actively asking for seconds of the green stuff.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Broccoli Florets Select firm, brightly colored heads and chop them into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Olive Oil Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for roasting to ensure the florets crisp up nicely without burning.

Garlic Cloves Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for the intense flavor; use more than you think you need for maximum impact.

Heavy Whipping Cream This forms the essential base of the creamy sauce, providing luxurious thickness and richness.

Chicken Broth A splash of low-sodium broth helps to thin the sauce slightly and adds a deeper savory dimension to the flavor.

Parmesan Cheese Always grate this fresh from the block; pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Mozzarella Cheese Added for an extra layer of gooey meltiness and stretch in the final baked dish.

Seasonings You will need kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of dried red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Mastering the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Creating a perfect, velvety smooth sauce is the key to elevating this cheesy garlic broccoli from good to legendary. The process is straightforward, but careful temperature control ensures your sauce remains luscious and does not break or curdle. We start by gently sautéing the chopped garlic until fragrant; do not let it brown or burn, as burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the entire flavor profile.

Once the garlic has softened, pour in the heavy cream and the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Simmering allows the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken naturally. This stage is crucial for building the creamy base. Finally, remove the pan from the heat *before* stirring in the Parmesan and Mozzarella. Adding cheese off the heat prevents clumping and allows the cheese to melt slowly into the liquid, resulting in that smooth, glossy texture we crave. Taste and adjust your salt and pepper, adding those little red pepper flakes for a surprising, welcome kick.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the fresh broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet. Spread them into a single layer and roast for 12 to 15 minutes until tender-crisp and slightly charred around the edges.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the broccoli roasts, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not turn brown.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, stirring frequently, and let it thicken slightly for about three minutes. Remove the pan from the heat immediately.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the shredded Mozzarella cheese until both are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and homogeneous. Add salt, pepper, and the red pepper flakes to taste, ensuring the seasoning is vibrant enough to complement the broccoli.

Step 5: Combine and Bake to Perfection

Transfer the roasted broccoli from the sheet pan into an 8×8 inch baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic parmesan sauce evenly over the top of the broccoli, ensuring all the florets are coated. Sprinkle a small amount of extra Parmesan on top for a golden crust.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Return the baking dish to the 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, just until the sauce is bubbling hot and the top is lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overcook the broccoli at this stage.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce from the pan for the perfect finishing touch.

Pairing Perfection: What to Serve with Savory Parmesan Broccoli

The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is its unparalleled versatility. Because the flavor profile is rich and savory, it complements almost any main course without overpowering it. This dish pairs magnificently with simple roasted proteins, where the creamy sauce acts almost as a gravy for the entire plate.

For a comforting weekend meal, serve a generous portion alongside a succulent, slow cooked lamb shoulder or a perfectly pan-seared chicken breast. The strong garlic and cheese flavors cut through the richness of the meat beautifully. If you are leaning toward seafood, try pairing this broccoli with grilled shrimp or flaky baked white fish; the salty parmesan provides a fantastic contrast to the delicate seafood. For those seeking a vegetarian main course, these cheesy garlic broccoli florets are incredible next to a large portobello mushroom steak or mixed into a pasta bake for an instant upgrade. This dish is designed to support the star of the show while quietly stealing the spotlight itself.

Common Questions About Cheesy Garlic Broccoli

This recipe is straightforward, but people often have questions about ingredient swaps and storage. Addressing these details ensures your cooking experience is seamless and successful.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides the signature richness, you can successfully substitute it with half-and-half, although the resulting sauce will be slightly thinner. For a lighter approach, whole milk can be used, but you may need to add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water (a slurry) during the simmering phase to achieve the desired thickness. Avoid using low-fat or skim milk, as they tend to separate easily when heated with cheese.

How long does Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli last?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best consumed within three to four days. Reheating can be done gently in the microwave or, preferably, in a small oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Note that the cream sauce might thicken considerably upon cooling, but it will loosen up once reheated.

What are the best tips for avoiding mushy broccoli?

The key to preventing mushiness is the initial roasting step. Do not boil or steam the broccoli first. Roasting at a high temperature for a short period retains the crispness and integrity of the vegetable. When you combine it with the sauce and bake, make sure the final bake time is brief—just long enough for the cheese to melt and the sauce to bubble, not cook the broccoli further. Using fresh, firm broccoli florets also makes a huge difference in the final texture of your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli. This truly is the ultimate way to enjoy this green superfood.

I spent years convinced that broccoli was actively trying to sabotage dinner. It usually appeared either tragically gray and soggy, drowned in bland water, or aggressively charred and smelling suspiciously like the inside of a chimney. Trying to convince anyone, let alone picky eaters, to enjoy this cruciferous culprit felt like a culinary Everest climb. My mother used to hide it under mashed potatoes, which, frankly, only made the mashed potatoes taste suspicious. I needed a hero recipe—a dish so undeniably delicious that the vegetable element was almost an afterthought.

Enter the game changer: the realization that nearly anything tastes divine when slathered in a rich, garlicky, cheesy hug. After much experimentation, involving varying levels of despair and butter, I finally perfected the recipe for what I can confidently call the world’s greatest side dish. This isn’t just cooked broccoli; this is an event. This is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli, and it has the power to silence even the most hardened vegetable skeptic at your table. It’s comforting, robustly flavored, and ridiculously easy to prepare, making it a staple in my kitchen for busy weeknights and holiday feasts alike. The key lies in balancing the slight bitterness of the roasted vegetable with a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every nook and cranny. Forget everything you thought you knew about serving green vegetables; we are transforming texture and taste today.

The Quest for Peak Flavor

The secret to conquering the lackluster flavor of steamed broccoli is simple: abandon steaming immediately. We are roasting. Roasting the florets in a hot oven unlocks a depth of flavor that steaming could never dream of achieving. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating those prized, slightly crispy edges that provide wonderful textural contrast to the smooth sauce. When you taste that tender-crisp bite, you’ll understand why the oven is the true friend of green vegetables. This initial step is non-negotiable for success. If you skip the roasting, you miss out on the vital earthy base note that holds up against the intense richness of the cream and cheese. We want depth, not just blandness coated in sauce.

We also achieve flavor perfection by treating the garlic with respect. We don’t want burnt, bitter garlic; we want soft, fragrant garlic infused into the cream. By sautéing the minced garlic gently in butter before adding the liquids, you extract its best, most aromatic oils without risk of scorching. This buttery, garlicky base sets the stage for the rest of the ingredients. The whole process is designed to layer flavors rather than merely mixing them. Each step builds upon the last, resulting in a side dish that is complex and satisfying.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

To create this magnificent dish, you require simple, quality components. Sourcing good Parmesan is perhaps the most critical ingredient here; avoid the pre-grated plastic tubs, as they rarely melt properly and can leave your sauce grainy.

• 2 large heads of fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, divided
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced (don’t skimp!)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 1/2 cups finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning blend
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended for depth)
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (for brightness, added at the end)

The Battle Plan: Step by Step Instructions

This recipe moves quickly once the broccoli is roasted, so ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready before you begin the sauce.

Prepping and Roasting the Broccoli

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure the florets are evenly coated.

3. Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan; use two sheets if necessary to allow for proper caramelization.

4. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are tender-crisp and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Crafting the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan or large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is frothing, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Watch carefully to ensure the garlic does not burn.

2. Pour in the heavy cream and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.

3. Stir in the remaining salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and the nutmeg, if using.

4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. This is crucial: the sauce must not be boiling when you add the cheese, or the cheese might seize. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, allowing each addition to fully melt and combine before adding the next. Stir continuously until the sauce is velvety smooth and thick.

5. Stir in the small squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This tiny acid boost cuts through the richness and brightens the overall flavor profile considerably.

Finishing the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

1. Return the roasted broccoli to the large skillet containing the sauce.

2. Toss gently, ensuring every floret is thoroughly coated in the luxurious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli sauce.

3. Serve immediately, garnished with an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese and a pinch of fresh parsley, if desired.

Flavor Boosters and Expert Techniques

Achieving the perfect consistency in the sauce is paramount to the success of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli. If the sauce breaks or separates, it usually means the heat was too high when the cheese was incorporated, or you used packaged, pre-grated cheese. Patience during the melting process is your best tool. Remember to incorporate the cheese off the heat, utilizing the residual warmth of the cream base to slowly melt the cheese into liquid silk.

Another technique that elevates this dish is introducing a small amount of liquid smoke powder to the roasting oil. Just a pinch adds a beautiful, subtle wood-fired element that complements the savory cheese profile immensely. It gives the dish a rustic depth, fooling everyone into thinking you spent hours tending to a complex sauce. When testing recipes, I discovered that incorporating a dash of white rice vinegar into the cream sauce, alongside the chicken broth, achieves a similar cutting effect to the lemon juice, providing necessary tanginess without making the sauce overly sour. This dish works beautifully as a standalone vegetarian option or as a robust side next to roasted chicken or turkey breast. The vibrant green color, paired with the glistening white sauce, makes for a stunning presentation on any dinner table.

Serving Suggestions to Impress

While the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is certainly the star of the show, pairing it correctly can enhance the overall meal experience. It pairs wonderfully with lean protein like grilled beef tenderloin or seared lamb chops. The richness of the cheese sauce acts as a marvelous counterpoint to the savory meat. Alternatively, for a lighter meal, consider serving it alongside fluffy quinoa or a simple wild rice pilaf. The creamy coating transforms plain grains into something truly special. For those looking for added texture, scatter some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds over the top right before serving. The crunch adds an unexpected, delightful dimension.

This recipe proves that side dishes should never be boring. They deserve the same attention to detail and flavor layering as the main course. When people ask for the recipe, they often cannot believe how straightforward the preparation is, given the depth of flavor. This is a five-star result delivered with minimal culinary stress. It quickly transitions from a simple vegetable dish to a comforting, cheesy indulgence that everyone demands again soon.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Roast the broccoli until tender-crisp first, developing those caramelized edges. While the broccoli rests, swiftly prepare the rich, cheesy sauce on the stovetop. Finally, combine them gently, ensuring the creamy coating fully envelops every floret for a flawless finish.

Add Your Touch

For added protein, toss in shredded rotisserie chicken or seared beef tips before serving. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a different richness, or sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a subtle, unexpected fiery kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible; gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to revive the luxurious, creamy texture and prevent the cheese from separating.

Always grate your own Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent a truly smooth, rich sauce.

Do not overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting the broccoli. Airflow is crucial for crispy edges instead of soggy, steamed florets.

If your sauce seems too thin, whisk in half a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it instantly without changing the flavor profile.

My sister, the self-proclaimed broccoli hater, actually requested seconds of this dish last week. I knew then that the quest for the ultimate creamy side had finally succeeded.

The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Recipe

If you think you hate broccoli, let me stop you right there. You don’t hate broccoli; you hate *sad* broccoli. You hate that pale, floppy tragedy that showed up steamed and slightly yellowed on your dinner plate throughout the 90s. We have all been betrayed by the limp green tree. But today, we embark on a mission of vegetable redemption. We are not just cooking broccoli; we are giving it a cheesy, garlicky, glorious makeover that turns a humble side dish into the star of the show. Get ready to meet the new obsession of your dinner rotation: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli.

The Battle Against Boring Side Dishes

For years, home cooks have waged a silent war against the tyranny of the standard side dish. Whether it’s plain rice or yet another attempt at salad, we deserve better. We deserve rich textures and layers of flavor that make us forget we are fulfilling our daily vegetable quota. This baked broccoli dish isn’t just about nutrition; it’s about pure, unadulterated comfort food disguised in a healthy green wrapper. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen—that punch of roasted garlic blending perfectly with savory, bubbling Parmesan. This recipe transforms broccoli haters into enthusiastic fans, proving that sometimes, all a vegetable needs is a generous helping of cream and sharp cheese. It’s a side dish so good, your main course might actually feel jealous.

Why This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Will Change Your Life

This recipe is built on a foundation of simplicity and decadence. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. First, we roast the broccoli until it achieves that beautiful, crispy char around the edges—the hallmark of properly cooked brassicas. Then, we bathe it in a luxurious sauce crafted from heavy cream, aromatic garlic, and a hint of robust chicken broth for depth. When this mixture is topped with a heavy mantle of freshly grated cheese and baked until golden brown, the result is irresistible. The crispy edges contrast perfectly with the velvety sauce below, guaranteeing a texture party in every single bite. This cheesy baked broccoli is the definitive answer to the dreaded “what side should I make?” question.

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Perfection

You don’t need an exotic pantry to create this masterpiece. Simplicity reigns supreme when achieving a truly luxurious texture and intense flavor. Make sure you use fresh Parmesan cheese; the pre-grated stuff often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into our beautiful cream sauce.

• 2 large heads of fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

Mastering the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Technique

Preparing this dish is straightforward, requiring just a skillet and a baking dish. This efficient process ensures you spend less time scrubbing pots and more time enjoying the applause from your dinner guests. Always aim for a nice char on the broccoli before adding the sauce; this adds crucial depth to the overall flavor profile.

Prep Work: The Green Foundation

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss your broccoli florets with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a sturdy baking sheet. Roast the broccoli for about 10 to 12 minutes, just until it starts to soften and develop crispy edges. Do not overcook it at this stage; we want it to maintain some structural integrity for the next round of baking. Once roasted, transfer the broccoli to a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside. This crucial step prevents the broccoli from becoming mushy when it hits the cream sauce.

Building the Cream Sauce

Next, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant; do not let the garlic burn, or it will turn bitter. Pour in the heavy cream and the broth, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat immediately. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half a cup of the Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste the sauce now and adjust the seasoning if necessary—remember that the remaining Parmesan will add more saltiness later.

The Grand Finale: Baking and Serving

Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the pre-roasted broccoli in the baking dish, ensuring all the green florets are coated generously. Sprinkle the remaining cup of Parmesan cheese over the top, creating a thick, cheesy layer. Bake the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly, the cheese is deeply golden brown, and the edges are crispy. Let the dish rest for five minutes before serving. That resting period allows the sauce to settle beautifully, preventing it from running all over the plate. Serve this glorious side dish alongside roasted chicken or a hearty beef stew for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

The era of disappointing side dishes ends here. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli offers a perfect marriage of texture and flavor, combining the deep savoriness of roasted broccoli with a rich, bubbling sauce. It is deceptively simple to execute but delivers a show-stopping result that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. By following these easy steps, you guarantee a side dish that is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with aromatic garlic. Forget complicated recipes; this cheesy, comforting vegetable bake proves that the simplest ingredients, handled correctly, lead to truly spectacular meals. Add this guaranteed crowd-pleaser to your repertoire today.

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FAQs

What steps ensure my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli doesn’t get watery?

Preventing a watery result starts with properly preparing the broccoli. Ensure you drain the florets thoroughly after rinsing and before the initial roast. The roasting stage is key because it evaporates excess moisture trapped within the vegetable structure. Secondly, always use heavy cream rather than lighter milk products. Heavy cream contains a higher fat content which stabilizes the sauce and resists separating or thinning out during the high heat of the final bake. If the sauce seems thin before baking, gently simmer it for an extra minute to achieve a thicker consistency; this provides a robust base that holds up beautifully in the oven.

Can I prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli ahead of time?

You can absolutely prepare the components of this dish up to one day in advance, but avoid assembling and baking the whole casserole until just before you intend to serve it. To prepare ahead, complete the initial roasting of the broccoli and let it cool completely. Simultaneously, prepare the cream sauce and store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to bake, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, pour it over the cold broccoli, top with cheese, and increase the final baking time slightly, typically by five to seven minutes, since you are starting from a chilled state.

What are good substitutions if I cannot find or do not prefer Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan contributes a distinct nutty and salty profile, several hard Italian cheeses work excellently as substitutes in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe. You can use Pecorino Romano, which offers a sharper, saltier flavor than Parmesan, requiring a slightly smaller quantity. Alternatively, Asiago cheese melts very well and provides a smoother, slightly sweeter backdrop to the garlic and cream. For a richer, more buttery flavor profile, consider using Gruyère. Remember that if you substitute with a saltier cheese like Pecorino, you might need to slightly reduce the amount of added salt in the cream sauce itself.

How should I store and reheat leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli?

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the creamy sauce separate and cause the broccoli to become mushy. The best method for reheating is placing the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, covering it loosely with foil, and baking it at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until heated through. If the top has lost its crispness, remove the foil for the last five minutes. This slow, steady heat ensures the cream sauce remains integrated and the cheesy top crust returns to a pleasant texture.