If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the answer. This classic recipe combines tender broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to perfection, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish offers the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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Why This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Stands Out
One of the best things about this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a holiday gathering, this casserole fits the bill. The combination of fresh or frozen broccoli, creamy soup, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s also an excellent option for families, as it can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a bake time of 30 minutes, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the kids will love it, as it’s an easy way to sneak in some healthy veggies. The addition of buttery Ritz crackers on top adds a delightful crunch that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Casserole
To make this delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
• Broccoli: The main star of the dish, providing both flavor and nutrition.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds richness and depth to the casserole’s sauce.
• Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Butter: Enhances flavor and helps create a tender texture.
• Eggs: Acts as a binding agent, turning the casserole into a hearty, satisfying dish.
• Onion: Adds flavor and depth to the casserole.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
• Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The key to a cheesy, flavorful casserole.
• Ritz Crackers: Crushed and sprinkled on top for a golden, crunchy topping.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for alternative ingredients to suit different dietary preferences, here are a few suggestions:
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Instead of mayonnaise, these can be used to add a tangy flavor.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can swap this out for a vegetarian option.
• Frozen Broccoli: If you don’t have fresh broccoli, frozen broccoli works just as well.
• Cauliflower: A great low-carb substitute for broccoli or mix them half and half.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam the broccoli until tender but not too soft. Aim for just a fork-tender texture.
- After steaming, chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, melted butter, eggs, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in ¾ cup of the sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with cooking spray and pour the broccoli mixture into the dish.
- Top the casserole with the remaining ¾ cup of cheddar cheese and the crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
To get the perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole, keep these helpful tips in mind:
• Broccoli Texture: Don’t overcook your broccoli. It should be tender, but not mushy.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 4 days before baking.
• Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it properly to avoid excess water in the casserole.
• Cracker Topping: Add the Ritz crackers only before baking to ensure they stay crispy.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
• Roast Chicken or Turkey: The rich cheese flavor complements the savory taste of roasted meats.
• Crockpot Ham: A delicious pairing for a comforting dinner.
• Baked Potatoes: A lighter side option that complements the richness of the casserole.
For variations, feel free to customize your casserole by adding other ingredients such as diced chicken, mushrooms, or even cauliflower. You can also make it a more substantial dish by adding 1 cup of cooked rice to the mixture before baking.
Freezing and Storing
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can freeze it before baking, storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then add the cracker topping and bake as usual.
If you have leftovers, the casserole will last for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender broccoli with a cheesy, creamy sauce for a dish everyone will love. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you make it for a holiday dinner or a weeknight family meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy!
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli properly to avoid excess water in the casserole. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option if you’re short on time, and it still tastes great in this recipe.
Can I make this Broccoli Cheese Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this Broccoli Cheese Casserole up to 4 days ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply preheat the oven and bake as instructed. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish for busy days.
How do I store leftovers?
After baking, leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven until heated through.
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Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s perfect for any meal. It combines tender broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy Ritz cracker topping, making it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 (10 ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise or Miracle Whip (can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (1/2 stick)
- 2 large eggs, slightly beaten
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam the broccoli until tender but not too soft, about 5 minutes.
- Chop the steamed broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, melted butter, eggs, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of the sharp cheddar cheese and mix well.
- Spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with cooking spray and pour the broccoli mixture into the dish.
- Top the casserole with the remaining 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese and crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a variation, you can add diced mushrooms, cooked chicken, or cauliflower.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water.
- Make this dish ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days before baking.
- To freeze, assemble the casserole without the cracker topping and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 254
- Sugar: 3.5g
- Sodium: 689mg
- Fat: 20.2g
- Saturated Fat: 6.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 15.9g
- Fiber: 1.4g
- Protein: 4.4g
- Cholesterol: 72mg
