If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and comforting side dish that the whole family will love, this Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the perfect choice! Packed with cheesy goodness, tender broccoli, and a buttery, crunchy topping, this casserole is a fantastic way to make vegetables irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner, a potluck, or just a regular weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole prepped and ready to bake in no time.
- Great for Any Occasion – Perfect as a holiday side dish, a potluck favorite, or a comforting family meal.
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, creamy flavors in this dish!
Ingredients Needed
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- Sour cream
- Eggs (beaten)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Butter (melted)
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
- For fresh broccoli: Steam for 3–5 minutes until slightly tender.
- For frozen broccoli: Thaw and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
3. Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Sour cream
- Beaten eggs
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Add the broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden, crispy topping.
6. Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with your favorite main dishes!
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Make it Extra Cheesy: Add Parmesan cheese or an extra cup of cheddar for an even richer flavor.
- Add Protein: Stir in some cooked chicken or bacon for a heartier casserole.
- Switch the Soup: Use cream of chicken instead of mushroom for a different flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika for a slight kick.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Steamer or pot (for fresh broccoli)
- Oven mitts
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Casserole
This casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Main Dishes: Roasted chicken, baked ham, turkey, or grilled steak.
- Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a crisp green salad.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine (like Chardonnay) or a refreshing glass of iced tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
Can I Use Fresh Cheese Instead of Pre-Shredded?
Absolutely! Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture compared to pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents.
Can I Skip the Eggs?
Yes, but the eggs help bind the ingredients together. If you prefer an egg-free version, try adding an extra ¼ cup of sour cream or cream cheese for structure.
What Can I Use Instead of Ritz Crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crumbled pretzels work great as a substitute for Ritz crackers.
How Do I Keep the Casserole from Being Watery?
- Drain frozen broccoli well before adding it.
- Don’t over-steam fresh broccoli.
- Use full-fat sour cream instead of low-fat, which has more water content.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a perfect addition to your dinner table, whether for a cozy family meal or a special holiday gathering. With its rich, creamy texture and crunchy topping, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it out and let me know how it turns out for you!
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