Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly. Chop it into manageable florets, about bite-size pieces. The fresher, the better; this makes all the difference in texture and taste. After that, you can choose to steam or blanch them for a few minutes to ensure tenderness.
While you’re prepping the broccoli, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get ready for the perfect melting of cheese on top of the broccoli once assembled.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or melted butter over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the broccoli to maintain some crunch while starting to soften.
Once the broccoli is tender, sprinkle the garlic granules, onion flakes, and lemon zest over it. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Allow the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes on the heat.
Transfer the sautéed broccoli into an oven-safe dish. First, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure there's an even layer to achieve a fantastic melt.
Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be an excellent sign that you’re on the right track.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This allows the cheese to set a bit. Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful crunch of broccoli, combined with the creamy texture of cheese.