If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings together vibrant veggies and melty cheese in one warm, inviting bite, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with flavor and creamy texture, this casserole turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing side or main dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to elevate broccoli to superstar status.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is straightforward, yet essential, lending a balance of creaminess, savory depth, and delightful crunch. Together, they create a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting.
- Frozen broccoli (32 ounces): Using thawed frozen broccoli makes preparation quick and keeps the vibrant green color.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder, bringing the casserole together with a silky texture.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces): Adds rich, savory creaminess to the mixture.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Boosts creaminess and a subtle tang to enhance flavor complexity.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Introduces a gentle aromatic punch without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mild sweetness and depth to the base.
- Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Brings subtle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- Ground paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a hint of warmth and vibrant color.
- Freshly shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts perfectly for that ooey-gooey, rich cheese pull everyone loves.
- Crushed Ritz crackers (1½ cups): Creates a golden, buttery crust for the perfect finishing texture.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Drizzled over the cracker topping to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
First things first, make sure your frozen broccoli is fully thawed. You can speed this up by microwaving it at 50% power until it’s just thawed but not warm — this helps keep the broccoli’s texture intact for the casserole.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish
Set your oven to 350°F and generously coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your casserole releases easily after baking.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
Whisk together the egg, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika in a large bowl. This blend forms the rich, flavorful foundation that coats every floret of broccoli with deliciousness.
Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Cheese
Gently fold in the thawed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir carefully to ensure every bit of broccoli is evenly coated in that creamy mix — this is where the magic really starts!
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even layer. This step helps it cook uniformly and ensures each serving has the perfect balance of cheese and broccoli.
Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the casserole, then drizzle the melted butter right on top. This finishing touch is crucial for achieving that irresistible golden, crispy topping everyone loves.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cracker topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the casserole bubbles gently around the edges. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to set.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To dress up your Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving. It adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal note that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs splendidly with protein-rich dishes like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian meal, try it alongside a crisp garden salad or garlic-roasted potatoes to round out your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not transform this classic casserole into individual portions by baking it in ramekins? It’s perfect for special dinners or when you want to impress guests with personalized servings that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient meal for busy days ahead.
Freezing
You can freeze the Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from burning, then uncover in the last few minutes to crisp it back up.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just steam or blanch fresh broccoli florets until tender-crisp before adding them to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will add a slightly different texture but just as much flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or another vegetarian-friendly cream soup. This keeps the casserole deliciously creamy without animal products.
Can I use a different cheese?
Definitely. Cheddar gives great flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp gouda to customize the taste exactly to your liking.
How can I make the topping extra crunchy?
For an even crispier topping, try mixing the crushed Ritz crackers with a little grated Parmesan cheese before drizzling with butter. The added cheese creates a golden, flavorful crust.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prepping. Prepare and bake it ahead of time, then portion into containers for ready-made lunches or dinners that just need reheating.
Final Thoughts
There is something so cozy and satisfying about a Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe that sings of home and comfort every time you take a forkful. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed winner that brings smiles all around. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes too — perfect for bringing cheesy broccoli bliss to your table again and again.
