If you’re craving a warm, cheesy comfort dish that feels like a big, flavorful hug, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances tender, vibrant broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s enriched by a crispy, buttery topping, making every bite a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or a potluck favorite, this casserole brings simple ingredients together in a way that’s truly irresistible and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look straightforward, but each one plays a special role in making this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe so deliciously memorable. From the fresh broccoli that adds vibrant color and crunch to the blend of cheeses and creamy elements that create that luscious texture, every component matters.
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets: Choose bright green, firm florets for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth; use extra-sharp for a bolder taste.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Contributes a creamy, mild finish that melts beautifully.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Ensures a rich and smooth base that binds everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creamy moisture to keep the casserole luscious.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup: Provides savory flavor and helps hold the casserole together.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Brings richness and a slight tang for balance.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Lifts the savory notes without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle depth and sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick to the creamy mixture.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs: Delivers a buttery, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter: Mixed with the crackers, it creates that golden, crunchy crust that makes every bite exciting.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
Begin by steaming your fresh broccoli florets for 4 to 5 minutes, just until they turn a vibrant bright green and soften slightly. This quick steaming preserves their color and crunch, making sure your casserole isn’t mushy but perfectly tender. After steaming, be sure to drain them well so the dish doesn’t get watery.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until you get a smooth, creamy blend that will coat the broccoli and melt perfectly in the oven.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Broccoli
Fold in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses gently, then add the steamed broccoli. Carefully mix everything just until the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheesy, creamy mixture. This mix is going to be the heart of your casserole and holds all that comforting flavor together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture to your greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly for balanced cooking and melting.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping
Combine the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Once mixed, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your casserole, creating a golden, crispy crust that adds the perfect textural contrast.
Step 6: Bake It to Perfection
Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and hot throughout, and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. Allow it to rest for five minutes before serving, giving everything time to settle and flavors to meld.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this comforting casserole, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also add a subtle warmth and appealing color contrast that makes your dish pop on the table.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe shines alongside roasted meats like chicken or pork, but it also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a satisfying vegetarian meal. The combination of creamy casserole with fresh, crunchy sides creates a well-rounded, inviting plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation at dinner parties. For a festive touch, you can add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or cooked bacon bits on top for texture and smoky flavor that elevates the classic dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after it’s been cooked. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the topping regains some crispness. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works too, but the crust might get a bit soft.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole watery.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t like mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup is a great alternative, or you can opt for cream of celery for a different but mild flavor.
Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
With some adjustments like dairy-free cheese, vegan sour cream, and plant-based mayo, you can create a vegan-friendly version, but it may alter the classic richness this recipe is known for.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Cauliflower or cooked carrots can be folded in for extra variety, texture, and nutrients, making the casserole even more colorful and nutritious.
How do I get a crispier topping?
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of crackers for a crunchier texture, and make sure the butter is well distributed on the topping before baking to achieve that perfect golden finish.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is truly one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Its combination of fresh broccoli, creamy cheeses, and crunchy topping is just downright delightful. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this simple yet satisfying casserole becomes an instant favorite in your kitchen too.
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Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy side dish perfect for holidays or any family dinner. Featuring tender steamed broccoli smothered in a rich mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, cream cheese, sour cream, and savory seasonings, all topped with buttery crushed crackers for a golden, crunchy finish. Easy to prepare and bake, it’s a comforting American classic that pleases all ages.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
Cheese & Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Condiments & Seasonings
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 3 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 fresh broccoli florets for 4 to 5 minutes until they turn bright green and become slightly tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheeses: Stir shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses into the creamy mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Combine with Broccoli: Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture, ensuring all florets are well coated but not mashed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until fully combined.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For a sharper and more intense flavor, use extra-sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar.
- Replace half the broccoli with cauliflower to add a different texture and flavor variation.
- Add cooked bacon bits into the casserole mixture before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
