Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Craving ultimate comfort food? Our irresistible Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dream come true! This classic side dish or light main is packed with tender broccoli, rich flavors, and a delightful crunchy topping. Get ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This beloved casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience! Here are compelling reasons why this Broccoli Cheese Casserole will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Delicious: A true crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal fuss, perfect for busy evenings.
• Cheesy Perfection: Layers of extra sharp cheddar melt into a velvety, savory delight that’s utterly craveable.
• Tender, Flavorful Broccoli: Fresh florets emerge perfectly cooked, never mushy, always vibrant and full of flavor.
• Irresistible Crunchy Topping: Buttery Ritz crackers add an amazing textural contrast that makes every bite exciting.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Equally at home on a weeknight dinner table, a festive potluck, or a holiday feast.
• Family Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of this comforting, cheesy classic.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to fit your pantry staples or specific dietary needs with simple swaps.

Ingredients Needed for Your Brocoli Cheese Casserole

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the most comforting and flavorful Broccoli Cheese Casserole you’ve ever tasted:

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: 2 large heads (about 600g / 6 cups chopped) – Look for firm, vibrant green heads with tightly packed florets for the best texture.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz / 298g) – Use a good quality store-bought version or your own homemade cream of chicken soup for richer flavor. Cream of mushroom soup is also a suitable alternative if preferred!
• Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (120ml) – We love the tangy richness that real mayonnaise brings. If you’d like an alternative, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt can be used for a slightly lighter casserole.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (56g) – Melted and incorporated into the creamy base for an irresistible richness.
• Large Eggs: 2 – These essential binders help turn our broccoli side dish into a cohesive, sliceable casserole.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium (about 150g) – Finely diced for a subtle sweetness and a wonderful depth of flavor throughout the dish.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g) – Standard seasoning to enhance all the delicious components.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2g) – Freshly ground black pepper offers the best aroma and a gentle warmth.
• Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (220g) – Freshly shredded for superior melt and robust cheesy goodness. The sharper the cheese, the more flavor it contributes!
• Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve (about 30 crackers / 100g) – Crushed, these buttery crackers add a fantastic crunch and savory flavor to the casserole’s top.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole – A comforting, hearty casserole with an extra grain boost.

Essential Equipment for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing this cheesy broccoli casserole a breeze, ensuring a smooth and satisfying cooking experience.

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all your creamy casserole ingredients seamlessly without making a mess.
• 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) Baking Dish: The perfect size to ensure even baking and that beautiful golden crust develops across the top.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Crucial for safely and efficiently preparing your fresh broccoli florets and dicing the onion.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Important for accurate ingredient ratios, ensuring a perfectly balanced and flavorful casserole every time.
• Cheese Grater: (Optional but highly recommended) Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes far better than pre-shredded varieties.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick glance at what to expect when whipping up this delicious and comforting casserole:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 people
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Follow these detailed steps to create a rich and satisfying Broccoli Cheese Casserole that everyone will adore. Precision and passion make all the difference!

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Prepare the Broccoli:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or cooking spray, ensuring no sticking.
2. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. You want them vibrantly green but still with a slight bite. Drain thoroughly in a colander and then pat them very dry with paper towels to avoid a watery casserole.

Assemble the Casserole Base:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream/Greek yogurt if substituting), melted butter, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Stir in the finely diced onion, salt, and black pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed – remember the cheese will contribute additional saltiness later.
3. Gently fold in the prepared steamed broccoli florets and 1.5 cups (165g) of the freshly shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese. Ensure everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
4. Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer.

Add the Topping & Bake:

1. In a small separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers finely (a rolling pin works wonderfully for this!) and mix them thoroughly with the remaining 1/2 cup (55g) of shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Sprinkle this buttery, cheesy topping generously and evenly over the broccoli mixture in the baking dish. This creates that glorious golden, crispy crust.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cracker topping is beautifully golden brown and delightfully crispy. If you notice the topping browning too quickly, you may loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.
4. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the casserole to set properly, making it much easier to scoop and serve without falling apart.

CHECK OUT: Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole – Another incredibly comforting and cheesy baked dish for your table.

Tips for Success with Your Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Achieve broccoli cheese casserole perfection every time with these insider tips from our kitchen to yours.

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli Pre-Baking: Blanch it until just tender-crisp. It will continue to cook and soften in the oven, ensuring it’s never mushy.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese is Key: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredded extra sharp cheddar delivers superior flavor and a luxuriously creamy texture.
• Drain Broccoli Well: Excess moisture is the enemy of a good casserole. Thoroughly pat those florets dry after blanching to avoid a watery result.
• Season Generously: Always taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper. A little extra seasoning goes a long way in comfort food to bring out its full potential.
• Allow Resting Time: Just 5-10 minutes post-baking helps the casserole set, preventing it from falling apart when scooped onto plates.

Variations & Substitutions for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This versatile broccoli cheese casserole welcomes creativity! Here are some fantastic ways to adapt it to your taste or dietary preferences.

• Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by opting for gluten-free cream of chicken soup and using gluten-free crackers for the crunchy topping.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a dairy-free cream soup alternative, plant-based mayonnaise, and your favorite brand of dairy-free cheddar shreds.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, fold in cooked, shredded chicken, diced beef, or even vegetarian protein like chickpeas into the mixture.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other melty cheeses like Gruyere, Colby Jack, or a smoked cheddar for unique and exciting flavor profiles.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce mixed into the sauce adds a lovely subtle kick.

Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Elevate your meal by pairing this delightful Broccoli Cheese Casserole with complementary dishes and beverages for a complete and satisfying experience.

• As a Side Dish: This rich casserole is perfect alongside roasted chicken, baked fish, or a hearty beef roast, adding a creamy vegetable element.
• With a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp, refreshing green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Bread Pairing: Serve with warm, crusty bread, soft dinner rolls, or garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Beverage Ideas: Complement the flavors with unsweetened iced tea, sparkling water with a slice of lemon, or a refreshing fruit punch.

Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Beyond its comforting appeal, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole also offers some wonderful nutritional highlights, making it a flavorful choice for your table.

• Rich in Vitamins: Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential Vitamin C for immunity and Vitamin K for bone health.
• Good Source of Fiber: The generous amount of broccoli contributes dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
• Protein & Calcium: The eggs and cheddar cheese in this casserole provide a good dose of essential protein for muscle repair and calcium for strong, healthy bones.
• Antioxidants: Broccoli is also known for containing various antioxidants that help protect your body’s cells from oxidative damage.

Storage & Reheating Your Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole for days to come, maintaining its delightful texture and flavor.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, keeping it fresh and flavorful.
• Freezer: For longer storage, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap it tightly first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm through. To reheat a whole casserole, cover it loosely with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions about Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Got questions about making the perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole? We’ve got answers to help you succeed every time!

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain it very, very well, pressing out any excess water, before adding it to the mixture. This prevents a watery casserole.

• What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand?Cream of mushroom soup is an excellent and common substitute for cream of chicken soup in this recipe, or you can use a homemade cream of celery soup for a similar creamy base.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (excluding the Ritz cracker topping) and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before it goes into the oven for baking.

• How do I prevent the Ritz cracker topping from getting soggy?The key is to ensure your broccoli is thoroughly drained and to add the Ritz cracker topping right before baking. Baking uncovered helps it crisp up beautifully and remain crunchy

• Is this casserole spicy?No, this classic recipe for Broccoli Cheese Casserole is traditionally mild and creamy. If you prefer a little kick, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

  
  

More Delicious Dishes

Looking for more comforting and easy side dishes or main meals? Explore these other fantastic recipes that are sure to become family favorites!

• Corn Casserole – A sweet and savory baked side perfect for any meal.
• Twice-Baked Potato Casserole – The ultimate comfort food side, creamy and rich.
• Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Casserole – A hearty and satisfying meal in a dish.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is pure, unadulterated comfort in every luscious, crunchy bite. It’s an easy, cheesy dish that truly satisfies every time. We hope you love it as much as we do! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.

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