Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing side that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and a buttery, crunchy topping, look no further than this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe. It turns basic ingredients into a bubbling, golden dish that’s always met with enthusiastic seconds. Whether you’re making a holiday meal or a weeknight family dinner, this casserole brings everyone together around the table with its irresistible combination of rich cheddar, savory soup, and just the right amount of crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity. Every ingredient is easy to find but delivers big on flavor and texture—from the sharp bite of cheddar to the crisp, savory Ritz topping, each item has a starring role!

• Broccoli (4 cups, chopped): Fresh or frozen florets work perfectly, delivering vibrant color and that signature tender bite after steaming.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10 ounces): Adds creamy, savory depth, binding all the ingredients with rich, comforting flavor.
• Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates luxuriously creamy texture; Greek yogurt or sour cream can be swapped in if you prefer a tangier twist.
• Butter (1/4 cup, melted): Infuses richness and helps everything meld together seamlessly.
• Eggs (2 large, slightly beaten): Give the casserole structure so it holds its shape once baked.
• Yellow Onion (1/2 medium, finely chopped): Adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic flavor throughout the dish.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every layer of flavor—don’t skip it!
• Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and balances the creaminess beautifully.
• Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups): The star of this dish; be sure to use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and gooey appeal.
• Ritz Crackers (1/2 sleeve, crushed): Cook up golden and buttery for a crispy, crave-worthy topping.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Steam the Broccoli

Start by placing your chopped broccoli into a steaming basket over simmering water. Steam it for about 5 minutes, or until it’s just fork-tender. The secret here is not to overcook—the broccoli should still have a little bite, so it holds up in the casserole and delivers that fresh, green flavor.

Step 2: Chop and Prep Broccoli

Once steamed, take the broccoli off the stove and let it cool for a minute so you don’t burn your fingers. Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces, just right for scooping up with a fork. Add the chopped broccoli to a medium-size mixing bowl as your first step to building flavor.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Now comes the luscious part! Add in the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise (or your chosen substitute), melted butter, slightly beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper right into the bowl with your broccoli. Stir everything together until it looks like the ultimate comfort food—creamy and flecked with color.

Step 4: Fold in Cheese

This step is where the Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe really starts living up to its name. Toss in half (about 3/4 cup) of your extra sharp cheddar cheese and fold it into the creamy mixture. Every bite will be filled with gooey, melty goodness once baked.

Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Lightly grease an 8×8-inch square casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour in the entire broccoli-cheese mixture, smoothing it out so it’s evenly distributed and ready for its golden crown.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top. Then, scatter the crushed Ritz crackers evenly to guarantee every square will have that signature crunchy, buttery bite. These two toppings work together for a truly irresistible finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is gorgeously golden and the cheese has melted into every nook and cranny. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly by this point—trust me, anticipation is half the fun!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheddar or a dash of fresh chopped parsley right before serving for a pop of color and a little extra cheesy flair. If you love a hint of brightness, a quick grate of lemon zest over the top adds a fresh zing that pairs with the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is so versatile! It shines next to roasted meats, juicy chicken breasts, or your favorite holiday ham. For simple weeknights, try rounding out your plate with roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad to lighten things up.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, portion the casserole into individual ramekins before baking for a dinner party-ready look. Or serve it family-style, scooping big, bubbling spoonfuls straight from the dish at a potluck. No matter how you serve it, this casserole always gets rave reviews.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so sometimes those second-day servings taste even better!

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, bake the casserole, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. Be sure to use a freezer-safe dish, and label it with the date for easy meal planning.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then cover and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. A quick zap in the microwave also works for individual portions—just add a splash of milk to keep things creamy!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great timesaver for this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe. Just be sure to steam or blanch it first, and drain any excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients to prevent a watery casserole.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for the cream of chicken soup?

Yes! Swap in cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a delicious vegetarian version. These both add fantastic flavor while keeping the dish rich and creamy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of oven time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.

What’s the best way to crush the Ritz crackers?

A simple method is to place the crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them gently with a rolling pin or your hands. Aim for a mix of small crumbs and slightly bigger pieces for the perfect texture on top!

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feel free to get creative! While sharp cheddar really stands out, a mix of cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little Parmesan can add great nuance to this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe.

Final Thoughts

Give this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe a try and see why it’s a reliable favorite at so many tables. With its blend of creamy, cheesy comfort and easy prep, it’s sure to become your go-to for gatherings or even just a cozy night in. Enjoy every forkful—you deserve it!

Print