Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. With tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich cheese sauce and topped with a crispy crust, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Uses everyday ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Family-Friendly: A great way to get everyone to enjoy their vegetables.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.
- Customizable: Easily add your favorite ingredients or toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- Sour cream
- Eggs (beaten)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Butter (melted)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Broccoli:
- If using fresh broccoli, steam it for 3–5 minutes until slightly tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain any excess moisture.
- Mix the Casserole Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Add the broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Variations
- Meaty Addition: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or ham for a hearty main dish.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for Gruyere, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a unique flavor.
- Vegetable Mix: Include cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms for a medley of veggies.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for the topping.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole (without the topping) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain it well to prevent excess water in the casserole.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken, cream of broccoli, or a homemade cream sauce works well.
How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Ensure the broccoli is well-drained and avoid overcooking it before baking.
Can I freeze broccoli cheese casserole?
Yes, freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole without the topping. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, use cream of broccoli or another vegetarian-friendly soup.
What pairs well with broccoli cheese casserole?
Serve it alongside roasted meats, baked potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Can I skip the topping?
The topping adds crunch, but you can omit it for a simpler casserole.
How can I make the casserole lighter?
Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and a light cream soup.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but feel free to mix in Parmesan or Monterey Jack for variety.
Conclusion
Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side or a standalone meal, its creamy, cheesy goodness is sure to be a hit. Customize it to your liking and enjoy this versatile recipe with your loved ones!
Print
Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery cracker crust. It’s the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 4 cups (about 1 lb / 450 g) fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the topping:
- 1 cup (100 g) crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Prepare the broccoli:
- If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 2-3 minutes until just tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well.
- Mix the casserole ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix the condensed soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream), Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Fold in the broccoli until evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Transfer the broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Prepare the topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or main course.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.
- Substitute the cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.