Okay, picture this: It’s Sunday dinner at Grandma’s. The aroma of a dozen different dishes fills the air, but one always stood out – her legendary Broccoli Casserole. Honestly, it was even better than mac and cheese (don’t tell my mom I said that!). That perfectly creamy, cheesy sauce clinging to tender broccoli florets… it was pure comfort food. I’ve spent years trying to recreate that exact taste, and I think I’ve finally nailed it. This Broccoli Casserole recipe is surprisingly simple, uses ingredients you probably already have, and it’s seriously addictive. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the show, you know?
What is Broccoli casserole?
Broccoli Casserole is basically the ultimate comfort food side dish. Think of it as a cheesy, creamy hug in a baking dish, but with broccoli. It’s essentially a creamy sauce – usually made with cheese (lots of cheese!), cream of mushroom soup, and sometimes a little sour cream or mayonnaise for tang – tossed with cooked broccoli and baked until bubbly and golden brown. The name is pretty straightforward, right? Broccoli + Casserole = Broccoli Casserole! It’s a classic for holiday dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy weeknight meal. It’s so versatile, and everyone seems to love it, even the picky eaters (okay, maybe *some* picky eaters!).
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This Broccoli Casserole isn’t just good; it’s ridiculously good. First off, the flavor is out of this world. The creamy, cheesy sauce is rich and decadent, but the broccoli keeps it from being too heavy. What I love most about this is how easy it is to make. Seriously, it only takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then the oven does the rest of the work. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. Plus, it’s surprisingly cost-effective. Broccoli is pretty affordable, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry.
And the versatility? Endless! I’ve added cooked chicken or ham to make it a complete meal. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for other varieties like Gruyere or Pepper Jack for a little kick. Honestly, once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought casseroles. It’s just that much better. If you are a fan of easy cheesy casseroles then you should try my What is a Cheesy too.
How do I make a Broccoli casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this Broccoli Casserole is honestly a breeze. First, you’ll cook the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp. Then, you’ll mix together the creamy, cheesy sauce. Finally, you’ll combine the broccoli and sauce in a baking dish and bake until it’s bubbly and golden brown. The secret to the best Broccoli Casserole is to not overcook the broccoli. You want it to still have a little bit of a bite to it. And don’t be shy with the cheese! More cheese is always better, right?
Ingredients
For the Broccoli:
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups). Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but you can use frozen broccoli florets in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
What is Creamy Sauce?
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup. What is the base of mayonnaise? Don’t skip the mayo! It adds a richness and tang that really elevates the sauce. I prefer full-fat mayo for the best flavor and texture. • 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a little extra tang and creaminess. Can you substitute plain Greek yogurt for regular milk? How do you thin out a sauce? I use whole milk for the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even almond milk. • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a depth of flavor. • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder : adds flavor to any dish. What’s better with garlic? Freshly ground is always best. • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I like sharp cheddar for the most flavor, but you can use any kind of cheese you like. What are some good substitutes for Monterey Jack cheese?
For the Topping:
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers: These add a buttery, salty crunch to the top of the casserole. You can substitute other types of crackers, like saltines or even potato chips.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps to bind the cracker crumbs together and adds even more flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking to the bottom of the dish? I always do this first so the oven is ready when I need it.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
There are a few ways to cook the broccoli. You can steam it, boil it, or even roast it. I prefer to steam it because it’s quick and easy. To steam the broccoli, simply place the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp. You want them to be cooked through but still have a little bit of a bite to them. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll be mushy. If you prefer to boil the broccoli, simply place the florets in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp. If you’re using frozen broccoli, you can skip this step. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Then, stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping. I always give it a little taste at this point to see if it needs any extra seasoning. Sometimes I’ll add a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Sauce
Add the cooked broccoli florets to the bowl with the creamy sauce and stir gently to combine. Make sure all of the broccoli is coated in the sauce. Be careful not to overmix, or the broccoli will break apart.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Make the Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated in the butter. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to make sure the topping doesn’t burn. If it starts to get too brown, you can cover the casserole with foil.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. How do you make the sauce thicker?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best recipes for Broccoli Casserole?
What’s a good weeknight dinner? Serve it alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also delicious with pork chops or meatloaf.
For a Holiday Feast:What are the best side dishes for Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter? What are some good recipes for prime rib?
For a Potluck:What are some good recipes for a casserole? Is it easy to transport and serve, and everyone loves it? I usually bring it in a disposable aluminum pan so I don’t have to worry about getting my baking done.
My family loves it with roasted chicken and mashed potatoes. It’s our go-to comfort food. Sometimes I’ll even add a side salad for extra veggies.
How do I make a Broccoli casserole?
How do you take your Broccoli Casserole to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?
Don’t overcook the broccoli. It willWhat is the most important tip for overcooked broccoli? You want it to be tender-crisp, with a little bit of bite to it.
Use good quality cheese: Good Quality Cheese is aThe cheese is a key ingredient in this casserole, so use the best quality you can afford. I prefer sharp cheddar for the most flavor, but you can use any cheese you like.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. I’m a scientistWhat is a good recipe to start with? Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique Broccoli. What are some of the best vegetables to add to your diet? What are some good cheeses to try, like Gruyere or Pepper Jack?
Add a little crunch: What is the bestThe Ritz cracker topping adds a nice buttery, salty crunch to the top of the casserole. Can you add other crunchy toppings, like crushed potato chips or fried onions?
Make It Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked later. Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Broccoli Casserole:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze Broccoli Casserole for longer storage. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat leftover Broccoli Casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the topping may not be as crispy.
I usually add a little extra cheese on top when reheating it to freshen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a reminder of Sunday dinners with family, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping casserole for a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to impress. I truly hope you give this one a try – it’s one of my all-time favorites, and I know you’ll love it too! If you enjoy this you might like my Green Bean Casserole! Happy cooking, and let me know how yours turns out in the comments below! I’d love to hear your variations and tips, too!
Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 head Broccoli
- 1 cup Cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup Milk
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut broccoli into florets and steam until tender-crisp.
- In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with French fried onions.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
