Okay, friend—let’s talk comfort food. Not just any comfort food, but the kind that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The kind that brings smiles to faces at potlucks and gets devoured down to the last crumb. That’s exactly what this Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is all about.
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Imagine tender broccoli smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s cozy. It’s cheesy. It’s got just the right hint of nostalgia—like something your favorite aunt used to make, only better. And the best part? It’s super simple to throw together, even on a hectic weeknight. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.
Whether you’re serving it as a standout side or a hearty meatless main, this casserole brings all the warm and fuzzy vibes. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Broccoli Florets: The green hero of the dish. Fresh or frozen, broccoli gives that satisfying bite and brings all the earthy goodness to the cheesy party.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty, and irresistibly rich. It’s what makes this casserole so decadently good.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds depth and creaminess, tying everything together with that classic casserole vibe.
Sour Cream: A dollop of tangy goodness that keeps the texture ultra-creamy and flavorful.
Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed for a sweet, aromatic foundation.
Garlic Powder: Because a hint of garlicky warmth makes everything better.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance and balance the flavors.
Crushed Crackers or Breadcrumbs (Optional): For a buttery, crunchy topping that adds a delightful texture contrast.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, sautéed onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness. Don’t overmix—just enough to get everything well blended.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Prepare your baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Proper preparation not only prevents sticking but also makes cleaning up a breeze later on.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for a golden, crunchy finish.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden. The aroma will tell you it’s ready—it’s like a cheesy beacon calling you to the kitchen.
Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to let the flavors settle. It’s tempting to dig in right away, but a brief cooling period makes a big difference.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side dish or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 310 (approx.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup with another soup?
A1: Absolutely! Cream of chicken or even a homemade béchamel sauce works great. It may slightly alter the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and extend the cooking time slightly to ensure it heats evenly.
Q7: Can I add meat to this dish?
A7: Sure! Cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even ground turkey can be stirred in for added protein.
Q8: What cheese works best besides cheddar?
A8: Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan work beautifully. Go with what you love!
Q9: Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
A9: Yes, 1–2 cloves of minced garlic sautéed with the onions adds a fresh punch of flavor.
Q10: What’s a good topping if I don’t want to use crackers?
A10: Try panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, or even crushed cornflakes for a fun twist.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new go-to for cheesy, comforting, broccoli-packed goodness. This Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is everything a cozy meal should be: easy, flavorful, and made with love. Whether you’re serving it up on a weeknight or bringing it to your next potluck, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 1 (9×13-inch) pan, 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Famous Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish made with tender broccoli, a velvety cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is a crowd favorite! #BroccoliCasserole #CheeseCasserole #ComfortFood #FamilyMeal #VegetarianRecipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds broccoli
- Kosher or sea salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more for greasing the dish
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the heads of broccoli into florets (about 10 cups). Trim the dry ends off the stems, remove the outer layer with a peeler, and cut into coins.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the broccoli stems for 3 minutes. Add the florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Butter a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs, toss to coat, and cook until golden brown (2-3 minutes). Set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, stirring often until the mixture thickens (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until smooth.
- Transfer the drained broccoli to the casserole dish, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle the cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and toasted breadcrumbs over the casserole.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can add more toasted breadcrumbs on top.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days if tightly sealed and cooled completely.
- Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg