Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together wholesome vegetables and indulgent cheese in one creamy, irresistible dish. Loved by both kids and adults, this classic casserole transforms simple ingredients into a hearty side or even a light main course.
Fresh or frozen broccoli florets are combined with a rich, cheesy sauce—typically made with sharp cheddar and a creamy base like sour cream or condensed soup—and then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Often topped with buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for added texture, it’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy.
This casserole is a popular choice for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it’s easy enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, chicken, or can even be enjoyed on its own.
Its versatility makes it suitable for potlucks, family gatherings, and as a crowd-pleasing addition to any table. Best of all, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy home cooks.
Whether you’re looking to sneak more veggies into your family’s diet or simply craving a warm, cheesy side dish, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole hits the spot every time.
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Description
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a comforting, creamy side dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crunchy topping.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this casserole offers a savory balance of vegetables and indulgent flavors.
Made with everyday ingredients like cheddar cheese, sour cream, and buttery crackers or breadcrumbs, it's simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a warm, satisfying dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Whether served alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main, it brings cozy, homemade goodness to any table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
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If using fresh broccoli, steam it for about 4–5 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
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In a large bowl, combine the soup, sour cream, 1 cup of the shredded cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
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Add the broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the casserole. Add the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese.
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Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
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Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, chicken, or even as a vegetarian main.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 15g30%
- Calcium 250 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Tips, Serving Tricks, and Conclusion
Cheesy broccoli casserole is a beloved dish that brings together the nutritional powerhouse of broccoli with the indulgent comfort of melted cheese.
It’s a perfect side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a weeknight meal when you're craving something hearty and satisfying.
The best part? It’s an easy-to-make dish that can be customized with various ingredients based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips for making the perfect cheesy broccoli casserole, tricks for serving it to guests, and wrap up with some concluding thoughts on why this dish is an enduring favorite.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
- Use Fresh Broccoli for Maximum Flavor
While frozen broccoli is convenient, using fresh broccoli provides a firmer texture and better flavor. Blanching it briefly before adding it to the casserole helps maintain its bright green color and prevents overcooking. After blanching, make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. - Cheese Variety Matters
For the best melt and flavor, use a blend of cheeses. Sharp cheddar provides a rich, tangy flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can also consider adding Parmesan for a bit of nutty depth. If you like a little kick, try adding pepper jack or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. - Don’t Skip the Cream Sauce
The cream sauce is the foundation of a cheesy broccoli casserole. It’s essential to use a combination of butter, flour, and milk or cream to create a smooth, thick sauce that will hold everything together. Be sure to cook the sauce long enough to thicken it, but not too long that it becomes too stiff. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a low-fat cream. - Texture is Key
A good cheesy broccoli casserole should have a balance between creamy cheese sauce and a slight crunch on top. To achieve this, consider topping your casserole with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese before baking. This creates a golden, crispy layer that contrasts with the creamy interior. - Seasoning is Essential
Don’t forget to season your casserole well. While the cheese provides much of the flavor, a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper elevates the dish. You can also add a bit of mustard powder for a tangy kick or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. - Bake at the Right Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top is browning too quickly, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and continue baking. This prevents burning while still allowing the casserole to cook thoroughly.
Tricks for Serving Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
- Make it a Complete Meal
Cheesy broccoli casserole can easily become a full meal by adding protein. Consider mixing in some cooked chicken, ground beef, or even bacon for an extra boost of flavor. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside a main course like grilled chicken, roast beef, or steak. - Individual Servings
If you’re entertaining or prefer portion control, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This not only makes for an attractive presentation but also ensures that everyone gets a perfectly crisped-up top. - Pair with a Salad or Bread
To balance the richness of the casserole, serve it with a light, refreshing salad. A tangy vinaigrette will cut through the creaminess of the dish. Alternatively, serve the casserole with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the extra cheese sauce. - Freezer-Friendly
If you want to make the casserole ahead of time, this dish is perfect for freezing. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated through.
Conclusion
Cheesy broccoli casserole is an incredibly versatile dish that combines the comforting richness of cheese with the nutritious goodness of broccoli.
By following a few simple tips, such as using fresh broccoli, choosing the right cheese, and perfecting the texture, you can create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying.
Serving tricks like incorporating protein or offering individual portions can make it even more enjoyable for your guests. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal or a casual dinner, this dish will surely be a hit with everyone at the table.
With its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and endless customization options, cheesy broccoli casserole is a dish that deserves a place in your regular meal rotation.
So the next time you’re craving something comforting, consider whipping up this cheesy, hearty casserole that is bound to please everyone!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Cheesy Broccoli Casserole?
The basic ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Casserole include:
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Fresh or frozen broccoli florets
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Cheddar cheese (shredded)
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Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
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Sour cream
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Butter
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Bread crumbs (for topping)
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Garlic powder, onion powder, and other seasonings
Some recipes might also include grated Parmesan or a variety of cheeses to enhance flavor, and you can adjust the soup choice based on your preference.
Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole can be made ahead! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it with foil and store it in the fridge for 1–2 days.
When ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold. This makes it a great dish for meal prep, holiday dinners, or gatherings.
Can I substitute fresh broccoli with frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. However, be sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Fresh broccoli tends to maintain more texture, while frozen broccoli may soften a bit more during baking.
How long should I bake Cheesy Broccoli Casserole?
Typically, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is baked at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
If the casserole is covered, remove the cover in the last 5 minutes to allow the topping to crisp up.
