Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish, Broccoli Casserole is exactly what you need. This classic recipe transforms simple broccoli florets into a creamy, cheesy delight topped with crunchy cheese crackers, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. It’s effortless to make, delivers vibrant green color, and brings warm nostalgia to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, Broccoli Casserole never fails to impress with its cozy, homemade charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Broccoli Casserole lies in its straightforward, well-balanced ingredients. Each element plays a critical role, from the fresh broccoli’s crispness to the creamy richness of the soup and mayonnaise, and finally the savory crunch of the topping. Here’s what you’ll gather for this delightful dish:

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets: Using fresh broccoli ensures vibrant color and a perfect tender-crisp texture after cooking.
• 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup: This adds creamy depth and umami, or use a homemade version for an all-natural twist.
• 1 cup mayonnaise: Mayo provides luscious creaminess and helps bind the casserole perfectly.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help set the casserole into a lovely, sliceable consistency when baked.
• 2 tablespoons dried minced onion: These bring a subtle, savory bite that blends wonderfully with the richness.
• 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar amplifies the cheesy flavor while adding gooey, melty goodness inside the casserole.
• 1 cup cheese crackers, crushed: Crushed crackers give the casserole an irresistible crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

How to Make Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch your fresh broccoli florets by boiling them gently for just about 2 minutes. This quick cooking brightens the broccoli and softens it slightly while keeping a satisfying bite. Once done, drain the broccoli well to avoid any watery casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend together the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, eggs, dried minced onion, and freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. This mixture is the rich and flavorful heart of your casserole, ensuring every bite is smooth with cheesy goodness and a hint of savory onion.

Step 3: Combine Broccoli and Mixture

Pour the creamy mixture over the blanched broccoli and toss everything until the broccoli is thoroughly coated. This step ensures each floret is bursting with flavor. Then, transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish of about 2 quarts or 8 inches, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the crushed cheese crackers evenly on top of the casserole. These will bake to a golden, crispy topping that adds fantastic texture contrast. Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The baking melds all the flavors beautifully and gives you that inviting bubbling finish.

How to Serve Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

While the Broccoli Casserole is delicious on its own, garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brightens every serving with a pop of green and fresh flavor. A light sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar right out of the oven is also a lovely touch for cheese lovers.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines when paired with protein-rich mains like roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. It also complements a hearty pasta dish, adding a refreshing vegetable component that keeps the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Broccoli Casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style meal or scoop it into individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. You can even use it as a filling in warm puff pastry for an elegant twist that surprises guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole keeps beautifully for up to 3 days and retains its flavor and texture well when reheated gently.

Freezing

You can freeze Broccoli Casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble it fully, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time. If freezing leftovers, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole loosely and warm it in a 350-degree oven until heated through. This method preserves the creamy texture and refreshes the crispy topping. Microwaving works for quick reheats, but the topping may lose some crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for Broccoli Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but it’s best to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream of mushroom soup, vegan mayonnaise, and dairy-free cheddar cheese to keep the casserole creamy and flavorful.

Can I add other vegetables to the Broccoli Casserole?

Feel free to mix in vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms for more variety and texture. Just be mindful of cooking times and moisture content.

How can I make the topping extra crunchy?

For a crunchier topping, mix the crushed cheese crackers with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top. This will enhance browning and add extra flavor.

Is Broccoli Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Broccoli Casserole is a fantastic meal prep dish. It reheats wonderfully and can be portioned for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its creamy, cheesy layers paired with crisp broccoli and a crunchy topping create a flavor experience that is simple yet deeply satisfying. I encourage you to try this beloved recipe soon—you might just find it becoming your go-to side for every occasion!

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