Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This easy broccoli cheese casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal. Loaded with tender broccoli, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and Quick – With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – The combination of cheese and broccoli is always a hit with both kids and adults.
  • Versatile – Serve it as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any weeknight meal.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when needed.
  • Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Fresh or frozen broccoli
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Cream of mushroom (or cream of chicken) soup
  • Mayonnaise or sour cream
  • Eggs
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Butter
  • Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
  • Salt and pepper

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Prepare Broccoli – If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture.
  3. Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, shredded cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream), eggs, and chopped onion. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Assemble Casserole – Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. Add Topping – Melt butter and mix it with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  6. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  7. Serve – Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

  • Add Protein – Mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or ham for a heartier dish.
  • Low-Carb Version – Replace the cracker topping with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
  • Spicy Twist – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
  • Different Cheese – Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Make sure to drain excess moisture from the broccoli before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the mixture.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Sour cream or Greek yogurt are great substitutes for a lighter option.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Yes, cooked chicken, turkey, or ham make great additions.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

It can be made keto by omitting the cracker topping and using full-fat ingredients.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

Breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even panko can work as a topping.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack are great alternatives.

How do I make it extra crispy on top?

Broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes for a golden, crispy topping.

What pairs well with this casserole?

It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Easy broccoli cheese casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a holiday side or a cozy weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this delicious, homemade casserole!

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Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for holidays or busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients like broccoli, cheese, and a crispy cracker topping, this dish comes together quickly and will be a family favorite!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 (10-ounce) bags frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or butter crackers)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook the broccoli: If using fresh, steam or boil for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain well. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.
  • Make the creamy mixture: In a large bowl, mix the soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Combine: Add the drained broccoli to the mixture and stir to coat. Transfer to the greased baking dish.
  • Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
  • Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or cream cheese.
  • Want protein? Add cooked shredded chicken or diced ham.
  • Try using different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a new twist.
  • Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

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