Name: Delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe Your Family Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Chopped Broccoli (Fresh or frozen); 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (Substitute with cream of mushroom for vegetarian); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Can use Greek yogurt); 1/4 cup Butter (Margarine or non-dairy option can be used); 2 large Eggs (Adjust count if adding protein); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Omit if preferred milder); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Use preferred melting cheese for variety); 1 cup Ritz Crackers (Crushed; or any cracker alternative)

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“Casserole” may just be a word to some, but to me, it evokes cozy memories of family gatherings and comforting meals. My Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe stands as a beloved staple in our home, seamlessly combining creamy goodness and a delightful crunch that leaves everyone reaching for seconds. This dish is not only quick to prepare, making it a lifesaver on busy nights, but it’s also a guaranteed hit—even with the pickiest of eaters! Whether you’re aiming for a holiday side dish or a weeknight family dinner, this recipe adapts beautifully, welcoming fresh or frozen broccoli and even the option to add chicken for extra protein. Curious to discover how to whip up this delicious comfort food? Let’s delve into the details and bring some warmth to your table!

Why Is This Casserole a Must-Try?

Family-Friendly: This Broccoli Cheese Casserole promises to please even the choosiest eaters, making it a hit for all ages.

Versatile Options: Easily adapt the recipe by incorporating fresh or frozen broccoli, and throw in some cooked chicken for a heartier meal.

Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and pantry staples, you’ll have a comforting side dish ready in no time.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The creamy texture paired with a crunchy cracker topping creates a delightful balance, perfect for any occasion.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep ahead and store it for busy weeknights or upcoming gatherings, saving you time in the kitchen!

If you’re looking for more comforting dishes, check out this delicious Baked Tortellini Casserole or try our fun twist on a classic with the Ham Cheese Croissant.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Ingredients

• Get ready to assemble this cheesy delight!

For the Casserole Base

Chopped Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, this veggie adds nutrition and bulk to your Broccoli Cheese Casserole.
Cream of Chicken Soup – It provides creaminess; substitute with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version.
Mayonnaise – This ingredient contributes to a rich texture; Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative.
Butter – Adds a touch of richness; feel free to use margarine or a non-dairy option.
Eggs – They help bind everything together; adjust the count if you’re adding chicken or other proteins.
Yellow Onion – Offers aromatic flavor; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to fit your family’s preferences.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – This is the star of the show! Replace it with your favorite melting cheese for a unique twist.

For the Topping

Ritz Crackers – Their crunch creates a delightful topping; any crushed cracker alternative can be used!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Broccoli Cheese Casserole bakes evenly, resulting in a deliciously golden crust. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and prepare your baking dish for a smoother cooking experience.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Take your chopped broccoli, whether fresh or frozen, and steam it for about 5 minutes until it becomes tender but still vibrant green. Once steamed, chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing. This step not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve the perfect balance in your casserole.

Step 3: Combine the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli with cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, melted butter, eggs, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully incorporated, ensuring that the creamy mixture envelops each piece of broccoli. This rich base is what makes your Broccoli Cheese Casserole so comforting.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Now, fold in 3/4 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mixture. Make sure to distribute the cheese evenly throughout the casserole base, as it will melt beautifully during baking. The melted cheese will create that irresistible creamy texture, making each bite truly delightful.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 8×8-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Smooth the top with a spatula for a neat appearance. This step allows the Broccoli Cheese Casserole to rise and puff up while baking, creating a visually appealing dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by a generous layer of crushed Ritz crackers. This creates a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. The golden brown crust will be the highlight of your dish, enticing everyone around the table.

Step 7: Bake in the Oven
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the topping is a lovely golden brown. This final baking step ensures all the flavors meld together, resulting in a comforting Broccoli Cheese Casserole that’s ready to serve.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your family’s taste buds and dietary needs!

Meat Lover’s Delight: Add shredded cooked chicken or diced ham for a heartier, protein-packed casserole. This twist transforms your dish into a satisfying main course!
Vegetable Medley: Mix in other veggies like cauliflower or carrots for an added nutritional boost. Not only does this create a colorful presentation, but it also introduces new flavors your family might love.
Dairy-Free: Swap out the cream of chicken soup with a homemade cashew cheese or a store-bought dairy-free cheese alternative. You can still enjoy the creamy texture without the dairy!
Extra Crunchiness: Instead of Ritz crackers, use crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for a different crunchy topping that’s sure to impress.
Spice It Up: Add some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat. This bold addition can turn your comforting casserole into a zesty delight!
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost. Herbs can elevate the dish, providing a delightful freshness that balances the richness.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese types, like gouda, fontina, or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its twist, allowing you to find your perfect combination.

While you’re here, explore our hearty Cheese Dog Casserole for another family favourite, or check out our Creamy Vegetable Casserole Cozy for a colorful side dish!

Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Texture: Steam broccoli just until tender to maintain some crunch. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture in your casserole.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole without the topping and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake with topping when ready for a fresh, homemade meal.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor twist in your broccoli cheese casserole recipe.
Eggs Adjustment: If adding extra proteins like chicken, consider reducing the number of eggs slightly to maintain the perfect creamy consistency.
Savory Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as you mix. This will enhance all the flavors in your casserole, making it truly satisfying.

How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Fridge: Store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: For unbaked casserole, cover tightly with heavy-duty foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake it with the topping directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: To reheat baked casserole, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out; heat for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Wrapping: If you’re storing individual portions, wrap them in plastic wrap and then foil to ensure freshness in the freezer.

What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This creamy delight pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, creating a satisfying and harmonious meal experience.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, savory chicken enhances the comforting flavors, making it a hearty main dish.
Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor complement the casserole without overpowering its taste.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy dressing adds freshness to balance the richness of the casserole.
Cranberry Sauce: Its tartness offers a delightful contrast, especially during holiday meals, brightening up every bite.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes make for a classic comfort-food pairing that’s always a winner.
Lemonade: The refreshing and slightly tart notes of lemonade cleanse the palate beautifully, perfect for family gatherings.
Apple Pie: The sweetness of a warm slice of apple pie is a charming way to end a hearty meal, encouraging second helpings.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a lovely crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the overall presentation of your dinner table.
Cornbread Muffins: Moist, sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful texture contrast while adding a comforting Southern touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Broccoli Cheese Casserole preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator without the topping to maintain its freshness. Alternatively, for longer storage, prepare the casserole without the cracker layer and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly with heavy-duty foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven for about 30 minutes, adding the cheese and crushed crackers for the last 10 minutes of baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting, delicious dish with minimal effort on the day you need it!

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for heads with tightly packed florets and vibrant green color. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh broccoli should feel firm and not limp, ensuring peak freshness in your casserole.

What is the best way to store leftovers of the Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
Store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. To reheat, cover with foil to retain moisture when warming in the oven, or simply warm in the microwave. Your family will appreciate having a delicious, comforting dish ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze the Broccoli Cheese Casserole, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, assemble the casserole but leave off the topping. Cover it tightly with heavy-duty foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply add the cracker topping and cook straight from the freezer, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time. It’ll come out fresh and delicious, just like when you first made it!

What should I do if my casserole seems too watery?
If your Broccoli Cheese Casserole turns out watery, don’t worry! This can happen if too much moisture was added from the broccoli or creamy ingredients. To fix this, next time, consider using less cream of chicken soup or draining any excess liquid after steaming the broccoli. You can also slightly cook the base mixture on the stove to thicken it before transferring to the baking dish.

Is this casserole suitable for someone with dietary restrictions?
Yes, absolutely! You can easily modify the Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe for different dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade sauce. Additionally, if anyone has dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy cheese options and yogurt, as well as margarine instead of butter. Always consider checking the individual ingredient labels for allergens to ensure they’re safe for everyone.