Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole Bake

Hey There!

Today, we’re diving into a dish that’s equal parts cozy comfort food and dinner party star: Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday spread, or just a way to sneak some veggies into a weeknight meal, this recipe is always a hit in my house. Creamy, cheesy, and full of wholesome broccoli, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

A Little Hook: If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and downright irresistible, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is about to be your new favorite go-to side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: No need for fancy techniques; this casserole comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist the cheesy goodness!
• Budget-Friendly: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

• Broccoli: Fresh works best, but frozen is an easy shortcut. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
• Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar to pack in those bold, cheesy flavors.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This pantry staple adds creaminess. Swap for cream of chicken or a homemade roux if you prefer.
• Mayonnaise: Adds richness and binds the casserole together. Greek yogurt can also work for a lighter option.
• Egg: Helps hold everything together into one savory, cheesy masterpiece.
• Ritz Crackers: That buttery crunch on top is a game-changer.
• Butter: Melted and mixed with crackers for the ultimate topping.

Pro Tips

Pick the Right Broccoli: Look for firm, bright green florets. If using frozen, be sure it’s completely drained to avoid a watery casserole.

Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese is worth the extra step!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.
2. Steam the Broccoli: Cook your broccoli until tender but still vibrant green. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, egg, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well-mixed.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping over the cheese layer.
6. Bake: Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Serve: Let it cool for about 5 minutes, then grab a big spoon and dive in!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: It will continue to cook in the oven, so aim for slightly undercooked during steaming.
• Customize the Topping: Swap the Ritz crackers for breadcrumbs or crumbled fried onions for a different crunch.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
• Make It Veggie-Friendly: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a plant-based alternative and opt for vegan cheese and mayo for a completely vegan dish.
• Serving Ideas: Pair this casserole with roasted meats, a fresh green salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

FAQs

• Can I Freeze This? Yes! Assemble the casserole without the topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the Ritz topping just before baking.
• How Do I Reheat It? Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a faster option.
• Can I Use a Different Cheese? Absolutely! Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work beautifully here.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe Card

Let your casserole shine at your next gathering or weeknight dinner. I can’t wait to see how yours turns out! If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments below or tag me on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Happy cooking!