If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly balances freshness and richness, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Loaded with tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and a crispy golden topping, it’s a delightful way to enjoy your veggies while indulging your cheesy cravings. This casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special that will become a favorite at your family table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step toward making a Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe that sings with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the vibrant broccoli to the creamy, cheesy base and the crunchy topping that brings it all together.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Provides that fresh, slightly crisp texture and vibrant green color essential to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a robust, tangy flavor that melts beautifully throughout the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a creamy, mild meltiness that complements the cheddar perfectly.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Creates a smooth, savory sauce that binds everything together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tanginess that livens up the casserole.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Enhances moisture and richness for that luscious texture.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a natural binder to keep the casserole firm but tender.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning with a touch of sweetness and warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a delicate heat to lift the overall taste.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or butter crackers: Creates the irresistible crispy topping that makes every bite exciting.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Coats the cracker topping to ensure a golden, buttery crunch.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Steam the fresh broccoli florets for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender but still retain a bright green hue. This step is crucial because it softens the broccoli without turning it mushy, preserving the perfect texture for your casserole. Once steamed, drain well and set aside so they don’t add excess moisture later.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Add the beaten egg as a natural binder, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and well incorporated. This mixture is the luscious glue that holds the Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe together, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Broccoli
Next, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the creamy base. These cheeses will melt into a gooey, savory layer that complements the tender broccoli beautifully. Gently fold in the steamed broccoli florets, making sure they are evenly coated in the cheesy mixture. This step ensures your casserole has the perfect balance of cheese and veggie in every spoonful.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, tossing to coat. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This topping will transform into a crispy, golden crust during baking, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until it is bubbly and the topping turns a lovely golden brown. After baking, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving — this short pause helps the casserole set up nicely and makes it easier to cut and serve. Now you’re ready to dig into a warm, cheesy delight that’s sure to become a family classic.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe adds an extra layer of appeal and flavor. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also add a subtle smoky kick that complements the rich cheese wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or baked ham for a hearty meal, or balance it with a crisp green salad or steamed rice for a lighter option. The creamy, cheesy notes of the casserole make it a fantastic companion to both everyday dinners and holiday feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on serving, portion the Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe into individual ramekins and bake mini servings for a personal touch at dinner parties. You can also layer it in a clear glass baking dish to showcase the vibrant greens and golden topping. Another idea is to add some cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions on top before baking for a flavorful upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining their flavor and texture. When ready to eat, simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven.
Freezing
This casserole freezes exceptionally well. To freeze, prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed for best results.
Reheating
To reheat your Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. This method helps preserve the crispiness of the topping. Alternatively, microwave reheating works for smaller portions, but the topping won’t be as crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well if you thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This prevents the dish from becoming too watery while still delivering great flavor and texture.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure the cream of mushroom soup you choose is also gluten-free, or use a homemade mushroom sauce to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked cauliflower, carrots, or even chopped spinach to add variety and nutrition. Just be mindful of cooking times and moisture content to maintain the ideal casserole consistency.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have cheddar or mozzarella?
While cheddar and mozzarella provide the classic flavor and meltiness, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Gruyère for a more gourmet twist. Just ensure they melt well and complement the broccoli.
How do I get the cracker topping extra crispy?
To achieve an extra crispy topping, use melted butter generously and spread the cracker crumbs evenly. You can also broil the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic that brings together fresh, cheesy goodness and a satisfyingly crunchy topping you’ll crave again and again. It’s wonderful for weeknight dinners or as a stellar side for holiday meals, and I promise once you try it, it will have a permanent place in your recipe box. Go ahead and make this delicious casserole your new go-to — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy side dish featuring fresh steamed broccoli baked in a savory blend of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayo, then topped with a crunchy buttery cracker crust. Perfect as a comforting holiday or weeknight side, it delivers a delightful combination of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with aromatic garlic and onion powders for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
Cheese & Dairy
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, beaten
Canned Goods
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or butter crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool.
- Mix Sauce and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Add Cheese and Broccoli: Fold the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the sauce mixture, then gently fold in the steamed broccoli until everything is evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are moist and clump slightly.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For an extra crunchy topping, add additional shredded cheese or French fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Frozen broccoli can be used as a substitute for fresh; just be sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing into the casserole to prevent excess moisture.
