Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a beloved comfort food that combines tender broccoli, gooey cheese, and a crunchy topping baked to golden perfection. This dish is simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. With a rich, cheesy sauce and a satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy schedules, requiring minimal prep and effort.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, even those who are not fans of broccoli.
3. Versatile: Works as a side dish or a main course.
4. Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Fresh Broccoli:
   • Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Drain and set aside.
2. Frozen Broccoli:
   • If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. Mix the Base:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using).
   • Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Season:
   • Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings based on preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Broccoli:
   • Spread the broccoli evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Add the Cheese Mixture:
   • Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli, spreading it evenly to coat all the florets.
3. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. Mix the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated.
2. Add the Topping:
   • Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake:
   • Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
3. Cool Slightly:
   • Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips for Success

1. Avoid Overcooking Broccoli: Keep the broccoli slightly undercooked before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
2. Cheese Choices: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, or mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
3. Customize the Topping: Substitute crushed crackers with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
4. Add Protein: For a heartier dish, mix in cooked chicken, ham, or turkey before baking.

Variations

1. Low-Carb Option:
   • Skip the cracker topping and replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade low-carb alternative.
2. Vegetarian:
   • Ensure the soup base is vegetarian-friendly or make your own.
3. Spicy Twist:
   • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Additional Veggies:
   • Include diced carrots, mushrooms, or cauliflower for more variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
• Pair with a simple green salad or a bowl of soup for a balanced meal.
• Add cooked rice or quinoa to the casserole for a filling one-dish dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping and bake before serving.

2. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss, gouda, or Monterey Jack cheese all work well in this recipe.

4. How do I make the casserole healthier?
Use reduced-fat sour cream, low-fat cheese, and whole wheat crackers for a lighter version.

Why This Recipe Works

The Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. The creamy cheese sauce complements the freshness of the broccoli, while the crunchy topping adds texture and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Yield: 6

Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

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Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a beloved comfort food that combines tender broccoli, gooey cheese, and a crunchy topping baked to golden perfection. This dish is simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. With a rich, cheesy sauce and a satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
   
2. Cook the Broccoli:
   If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
   
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom/chicken soup, mayonnaise or sour cream, eggs, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
   
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Fold the broccoli into the creamy mixture until well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
   
5. Add the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
   
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
   
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or a main course.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup and add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Low-Carb Variation: Replace the cracker topping with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese.

Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.