Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a cozy, classic side dish that’s loaded with tender broccoli, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, buttery topping. It’s the kind of recipe that makes any meal feel a little more special—whether it’s a holiday gathering, Sunday dinner, or just a cozy weeknight. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is a reliable crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with almost anything.
What Makes This Dish Special?
This casserole takes humble broccoli and transforms it into a luxurious, creamy, cheesy masterpiece. The combination of cheddar cheese, cream sauce, and a crunchy topping makes each bite rich and satisfying without being heavy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—easy to dress up with extra veggies, bacon, or spices depending on your mood or the occasion.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until bright green, then drain. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
3. Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, stir together the cream soup, cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine
Add the broccoli to the cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve Warm
Let cool slightly before serving.
Variations
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked, shredded chicken or crispy bacon.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or diced red peppers for more color and flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar.
- Spicy Kick: Stir a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Saucepan (if blanching fresh broccoli)
- Spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without the topping) and freeze. Add the topping just before baking after thawing.
My Cooking Experience
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a nostalgic favorite in my kitchen. I’ve made it for countless family dinners and potlucks, and it always gets rave reviews. It’s one of those dishes that feels homemade and comforting but doesn’t require a lot of fuss. I love how easy it is to tweak based on what’s in the fridge—sometimes I even sneak in extra veggies or leftover roasted chicken for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a big holiday meal or a simple family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.
broccoli cheese casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- If using fresh broccoli, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until bright green, then drain. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- In a large bowl, stir together the cream soup, cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the broccoli to the cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
