Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection.
This hearty casserole is a family favorite, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or an easy weeknight side dish. With its golden, cheesy topping and savory flavor, it’s a delicious way to enjoy vegetables.
Whether made with fresh or frozen broccoli, this dish is quick to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum flavor make Broccoli Cheese Casserole a go-to recipe for anyone craving warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
Warm, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and flavorful.
This classic recipe combines tender broccoli, melty cheese, and a buttery cracker topping for a dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Description
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked together under a golden, crispy topping.
Perfect as a side dish for holidays or weeknight dinners, it’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying. This casserole is often made with cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom or cheese soup, and topped with buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.
It's a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy vegetables while delivering indulgent, home-cooked flavor. Easy to make ahead and always a crowd-pleaser at any table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or a similar casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
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If using fresh broccoli, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2–3 minutes, just until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well. Pat with a paper towel to remove excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using an egg, mix it in now. Stir until the mixture is well blended.
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Gently fold the cooked or thawed broccoli into the cheese mixture until evenly coated. Make sure the broccoli is broken into bite-sized pieces so the dish has a consistent texture.
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Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly with a spoon or spatula.
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In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden, buttery crunch once baked.
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Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
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Remove from the oven and let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to scoop.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 700mg30%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 12g24%
* 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
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy topping.
Whether you're preparing it for a holiday feast, a potluck, or a weeknight family dinner, a few smart tips and serving tricks can elevate this classic casserole to new levels of flavor and texture.
Here’s how to make your Broccoli Cheese Casserole extra delicious and easy to serve.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole
1. Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Frozen Broccoli:
Fresh broccoli provides the best texture, but if you're using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly. Excess water can make the casserole runny. Blanch fresh broccoli for 2–3 minutes, then plunge it into ice water to preserve its vibrant color and slightly firm bite.
2. Make a Flavorful Cheese Sauce:
Don’t rely solely on canned soup or pre-shredded cheese. Instead, make a simple homemade cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and real cheese like sharp cheddar. Add a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or Dijon mustard to enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
3. Mix Cheeses for Depth:
While cheddar is classic, blending it with mozzarella for stretchiness or Gruyère for richness can make the casserole more complex and indulgent. Just avoid overly soft cheeses that melt poorly or greasy cheeses that can separate.
4. Add a Crunchy Topping:
A crunchy topping balances the creamy texture. Use buttered breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even French fried onions. Combine with a little Parmesan for extra flavor. Add the topping just before baking to keep it crispy.
5. Don't Overbake:
Overbaking can dry out the casserole or make the cheese sauce separate. Bake until bubbly and the topping is golden—usually around 25–30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
6. Prep Ahead:
This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble it a day in advance (without baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking. This saves time and enhances flavor as the ingredients meld together.
7. Make It Healthier (Optional):
Substitute part of the cheese with low-fat options or use a light cream sauce. Add brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber and make it a full one-dish meal. Greek yogurt can also be mixed into the sauce for added creaminess with less fat.
Serving Tricks
1. Portion Smartly:
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut clean portions. Use a spatula to serve neatly from the edges toward the center.
2. Serve in Mini Ramekins or Muffin Tins:
For parties or individual servings, bake the mixture in greased muffin tins or ramekins. They hold their shape and make serving easier, especially for buffets or large gatherings.
3. Pair It Thoughtfully:
Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even simple soups like tomato or mushroom. Add a fresh side salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the dish.
4. Garnish for Visual Appeal:
Top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, paprika, or an extra dusting of cheese just before serving. These small touches elevate presentation and add flavor.
5. Reheat Gently:
To reheat leftovers, use a 300°F oven covered loosely with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, which can make the sauce greasy and the topping soggy.
Tips & Variations:
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, you can mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled cooked bacon to make it a main dish.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap the crackers for a mix of crushed pork rinds and Parmesan cheese.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping) up to 1 day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add topping just before baking.
- Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup and ensure cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
- Crunchier Topping: Add fried onions or panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter for a different texture on top.
Serving Suggestions:
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with:
- Roast chicken or turkey – especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Grilled meats like pork chops or steak.
- Baked salmon or fish fillets for a balanced weeknight dinner.
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or stuffing for a full comfort-food feast.
It also works well as a vegetarian entrée when paired with a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes), or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
Final Thoughts:
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is simple yet satisfying — a true classic that can be dressed up or simplified depending on your needs.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table or prepping ahead for busy nights, it never fails to deliver rich, cheesy flavor and a cozy, homemade touch. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s simple to make but endlessly customizable. With these tips and serving tricks, you can ensure your casserole is always creamy, flavorful, and crowd-friendly.
Whether you're feeding a holiday crowd or prepping a cozy weeknight meal, these strategies will help you serve up a dish that’s satisfying and stress-free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh broccoli. Just blanch it first by boiling it for 2–3 minutes, then draining and running it under cold water. This helps it retain its bright color and softens it slightly before baking. Frozen broccoli is more convenient, but fresh gives a firmer texture.
What kind of cheese works best for this casserole?
Sharp cheddar is the most common and flavorful choice, but you can mix in others like mozzarella for stretchiness or Parmesan for a savory depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?
If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly. Press out excess moisture with paper towels. Also, avoid overcooking the casserole, which can cause separation in creamy sauces. Using a thick sauce base (like condensed soup or a roux) helps the casserole hold together well.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is great for make-ahead meals. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from the fridge, add an extra 10–15 minutes to the cook time. You can also freeze it before or after baking, though freshly baked is best for texture.
