This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With tender broccoli, a creamy cheese base, and a buttery, crispy topping, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable with a variety of optional add-ins, making it ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this casserole because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. The creamy sauce is rich and savory, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch. The melted cheddar cheese gives it that irresistible cheesy goodness that everyone will enjoy. The crispy topping made with buttery crackers (or breadcrumbs) adds a delightful crunch, completing the dish perfectly. Whether I’m serving it as a side to a holiday meal or as a vegetarian main, this casserole never disappoints.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Broccoli:
Steam the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.
Mix the Casserole Base:
In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the mozzarella (if using).
Assemble the Casserole:
Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture, stirring until well-coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Prepare the Topping:
Mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or extra paprika for a pop of color. Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or grilled fish.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 6–8 people, depending on portion size. The preparation time is around 10–15 minutes, and the baking time is 30–35 minutes. In total, expect to spend about 45–50 minutes making this casserole.
Variations
I love how versatile this casserole is. Here are a few ways I mix things up:
Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a meaty twist.
For extra veggies, mix in sautéed mushrooms, red bell peppers, or spinach.
Spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Add pasta or quinoa to make this dish a more substantial vegetarian meal.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftover casserole, let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend placing it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, depending on the portion size.
Related Recipes:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, I use frozen broccoli all the time. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often prepare it the day before and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, I’ve had great results using cream of chicken soup. You could also use a homemade white sauce if you prefer a more natural option.
How do I make this casserole spicier?
I love adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a spicy kick. You can also use spicy cheese blends for an extra layer of heat.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and it’s so easy to make. I love how creamy and cheesy it is, and the broccoli adds a fresh crunch that makes every bite satisfying. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or making it a main, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Try it next time you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that will be a hit at any meal!
📖 Recipe:
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Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and cheesy Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish featuring tender broccoli, a savory cheese base, and a buttery, crispy topping. Perfect for any occasion as a side or main dish.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Steam the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained.
- In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using).
- Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture, stirring until well-coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra paprika for a pop of color. Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or grilled fish.
Notes
If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and drained properly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
This casserole can be made ahead of time. Just refrigerate it and bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
For added protein, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or diced ham.
Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This recipe can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
