Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a warm, creamy, and comforting classic that has been a staple in many households. This casserole combines tender broccoli with a rich, cheesy base and a buttery cracker topping, making it an irresistible dish for family dinners or potlucks. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, this delightful recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the delightful world of this cheesy broccoli bake!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This cheesy broccoli casserole is simply a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight meals. Additionally, it’s packed with flavor, combining the savory taste of broccoli with creamy cheese. This dish is also versatile, accommodating various ingredients such as rice or breadcrumbs for added texture. Plus, it’s a vegetarian option that kids adore, making it a perfect broccoli and cheese dish for family dinners. With its comforting taste, it’s no wonder why this casserole is so popular during holidays and gatherings!

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Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Gather these items:

2 (10 oz) packages frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained (or fresh, lightly steamed)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp)
1 cup mayonnaise
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (topping)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (topping)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Fold in thawed or steamed broccoli and shredded cheddar until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread mixture into the prepared dish.
Step 5: Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling at the edges. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding cream cheese to the mix.
This dish can easily be made ahead of time; just assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the cheese.
Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.

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Best Ways to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This comforting dish serves wonderfully as a side for any meal, especially during holidays. Pair it with roasted meats or serve it as part of a vegetarian feast. It also shines as a broccoli cheese casserole for potluck events, where it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. For a heartier option, consider serving it with rice for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Broccoli Cheese Casserole

To store leftover broccoli cheese casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This makes it a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Casserole

What is broccoli cheese casserole?

Broccoli cheese casserole is a baked dish that combines tender broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, often topped with breadcrumbs or crackers for added crunch. It’s popular as a side dish or a comforting main course.

Can I make broccoli cheese casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the broccoli cheese bake recipe in advance, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving for a hot, fresh dish.

How do I avoid common mistakes with broccoli cheese casserole?

To prevent a soggy casserole, ensure the broccoli is well-drained. Additionally, avoid overcooking it to keep the texture intact. Following the right baking time is crucial for that perfect golden top.

Variations of Broccoli Cheese Casserole You Can Try

There are countless ways to customize your broccoli cheese casserole. For a healthier twist, try a healthy broccoli cheese casserole recipe that uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also make a vegetarian broccoli cheese casserole by adding other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower. If you’d like a bit of crunch, consider a topping of broccoli cheese casserole with breadcrumbs for added texture.

For more information on the nutritional benefits of broccoli, check out this Healthline article.

For a delicious side dish, you might also enjoy Roasted Carrot Soup or Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil.

Lastly, if you’re looking for more casserole ideas, check out this Dinner Recipes section.

Delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole: 7 Comforting Secrets

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A warm, creamy, and comforting classic, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs tender broccoli with a rich, cheesy base and a buttery cracker topping. Perfect for cozy soul food dinners, weeknight meals, holiday sides, or kid-friendly veggie dishes.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 (10 oz) packages frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained (or fresh, lightly steamed)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp)
1 cup mayonnaise
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (topping)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (topping)

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Instructions

Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Fold in thawed or steamed broccoli and shredded cheddar until everything is evenly coated.
Spread mixture into the prepared dish.
Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling at the edges. Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.