A rich, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy broccoli casserole is the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish brings together tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping for the ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly.
- Crowd-pleaser – A hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and holidays.
- Make-ahead friendly – Prepare it in advance and bake when ready.
- Customizable – Add proteins, different cheeses, or a unique topping for variety.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, eggs, and seasonings. Stir until well blended.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Add the steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and gently fold everything together. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Add protein – Mix in cooked shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or diced ham for a heartier dish.
- Swap the cheese – Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gruyere for different flavors.
- Make it low-carb – Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds or omit the topping.
- Gluten-free version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Spice it up – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled steak
- Baked salmon
- Mashed potatoes or rice
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy broccoli casserole is the ultimate side dish—easy to make, rich in flavor, and always a favorite at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Imagine that—every bite filled with gooey cheese, tender broccoli, and a perfectly crispy topping.
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