Name: cheesy broccoli casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 5 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed until just tender); 1 can (10.5 oz cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup); ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess); ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or breadcrumbs); 2 tbsp melted butter

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish that turns a humble vegetable into something indulgent and irresistible. With tender broccoli florets baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a golden, buttery topping, this casserole pairs well with nearly any main dish and is a staple for holiday dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights at home.

What Makes This Dish Special?

This casserole hits all the right notes—rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of texture. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something luxurious. The dish is easy to assemble, uses pantry staples, and can be prepped ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or broccoli lovers, this casserole disappears fast.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

5 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed until just tender)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
½ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
¼ cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

2. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in the steamed broccoli.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

4. Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole for a crunchy topping.

5. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.

6. Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Serve as a side dish or even a vegetarian main course.

Variations

Add Rice: Stir in 1 cup of cooked rice to make it more filling.
Add Chicken: Mix in shredded cooked chicken for a full meal.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
Low-Carb: Use pork rind crumbs for the topping instead of crackers.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Steamer or pot for broccoli
Casserole dish (9×13)
Spoon or spatula
Oven

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked (without topping) for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add fresh topping if needed.

My Cooking Experience

I’ve made this casserole for everything from Sunday dinners to holiday gatherings, and it’s always a hit. The creamy filling with tender broccoli and cheesy topping hits that perfect comfort food note. It’s easy to adapt to what’s in the fridge, and leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a simple, comforting classic that elevates broccoli into something crave-worthy. Whether served at a family meal or festive gathering, it brings rich flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch to the table.

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