There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven—and this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a superstar when it comes to cozy family meals and potluck side dishes alike. Featuring tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy golden-brown topping, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish, this versatile veggie recipe never fails to please.
Plus, it’s super easy and flexible! You can opt for a classic recipe or jazz it up with add-ins like rice, chicken, or even a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Let’s dive into how to make this easy, cheesy broccoli casserole that tastes like pure comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Simple and Quick: Minimal prep time for busy cooks!
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour their veggies.
- Customizable: Make it with rice, chicken, or top with Ritz crackers for a fun twist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish for holidays, BBQs, or as a hearty main dish during the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy casserole comes together with everyday ingredients you probably already have:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed/cooked)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (optional, for heartier variation)
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided—1 1/2 cups for the casserole, 1/2 cup for the topping)
- 1/4 cup Velveeta or Cheez Whiz (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crumbled (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken for a protein-packed meal.
- A handful of sliced mushrooms or sautéed onions to amp up the veggies.
Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
Here’s a list of recommended tools for making the Broccoli Cheese Casserole, including essential kitchen tools that will make the preparation and cooking process easier:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| 9×13-Inch Baking Dish | Perfect size for casseroles and great for baking. |
| Stainless Steel Steamer Basket | Ideal for steaming broccoli without losing nutrients. |
| Mixing Bowls | For combining ingredients like the cheese mixture and soups. |
| Whisk | Helps to blend ingredients smoothly together. |
| Measuring Cups | Essential for accurately measuring ingredients. |
| Measuring Spoons | Useful for precise measurements of smaller quantities. |
| Rubber Spatula | Great for folding ingredients together and scraping bowls. |
| Ritz Cracker Crumb Tool | Quickly crushes crackers for toppings if using Ritz. |
| Oven Mitts | Safety tool to protect hands when handling hot dishes. |
| Serving Spoon | For dish serving and portioning out the casserole. |
| Cooling Rack | Optional, for cooling the casserole after baking before serving. |
These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure a delicious outcome for your Broccoli Cheese Casserole!
- Meet Your Daily Needs: DOWAN larger and deeper ceramic baking dish measures 15.6″L x 9.3″W x 3.1″ H (including handle si…
- Durable and Safe: Made from lead-free and pro-grade ceramic, this 4.2 quarts extra-large casserole dish is designed for …
- Easy to Hold: With its double-handled design, the 9×13 rectangular baking dish is easy to carry from the oven or freezer…
- Health and Safety: The main body of the folding steamer is made of high quality 430 stainless steel, the lifting ring, l…
- Lifting Ring Optimization: The steamer is designed with 304 stainless steel thickening, making it easy to grip and more …
- Additional Accessories: Use 304 stainless steel S-hooks to prevent burning fingers (note: you need to keep the steamer b…
- THAT’S HOT….NOT: Made with durable, heat resistant polyester that can withstand heat up to 475°F.
- SIMPLE TO USE: Features a textured non-slip silicone for a safe and comfortable grip while cooking, baking or serving ho…
- ONE SIZE FITS ALL: The set of two pot holders measure 7.25-Inch wide by 11.75-Inch long for a safe yet comfortable fit.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using fresh broccoli, blanch it for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then drain and pat dry. If frozen, steam or microwave until tender but not mushy. Cook your rice and set it aside.
💡 Pro Tip: For added flavor, toss your steamed broccoli in a little garlic powder or black pepper before assembling the casserole!
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, and garlic powder. Add the Velveeta or Cheez Whiz (if using) and stir until smooth and well-combined. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Picture this: a casserole dish filled with perfectly tender broccoli layered with creamy cheese sauce, topped with gooey melted cheddar, and finished with a crispy Ritz cracker crunch!
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cooked broccoli and rice (if using) evenly across the bottom. Pour the cheese mixture over everything, making sure it coats the broccoli evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
For extra texture and flavor, crush a sleeve of Ritz crackers, mix with melted butter, and scatter as the final topping for a buttery crunch.
Step 4: Bake Your Casserole
Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. If you prefer an extra-crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes—but keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let your Broccoli Cheese Casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully to create the cheesy, veggie-packed side (or main dish!) of your dreams.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Both work well here—just don’t skimp on draining the water to keep your casserole from being runny.
- Lighten it Up: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese for a healthier twist.
- Go Gluten-Free: Skip the Ritz topping and use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs instead.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Variations to Try
- Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Chicken: Stir shredded cooked chicken into the cheese mixture for a wholesome, protein-packed dish.
- Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Casserole: Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours—perfect for busy days or party prep!
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add a dash of smoked paprika and some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of crackers!
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13-Inch Baking Dish For baking the casserole.
- Stainless Steel Steamer Basket For steaming broccoli.
- Mixing bowls For mixing ingredients.
- Whisk For blending ingredients.
- Ritz Cracker Crumb Tool To crush crackers for the topping (optional).
- Rubber Spatula To fold and mix ingredients.
- Oven mitts For handling hot dishes.
- Serving spoon For portioning the casserole.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, steamed
- 2 cups cooked white rice optional
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided: 1 1/2 cups for the casserole, 1/2 cup for the topping
- 1/4 cup Velveeta or Cheez Whiz optional
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crumbled (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Optional Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- Sliced mushrooms or sautéed onions
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and pat dry. For frozen broccoli, steam or microwave until tender but not mushy. Cook rice and set aside.
Optional: Season steamed broccoli with garlic powder or black pepper.
Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, and garlic powder.
- Add Velveeta or Cheez Whiz if using, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cooked broccoli and rice (if using) evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli and rice, ensuring even coating.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and crushed Ritz crackers (mixed with melted butter if desired).
Bake Your Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, veggie-packed dish!
Video
Notes
Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble, cover, refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Variations: Try adding spices like paprika or jalapeños for different flavors, or swap Ritz crackers for gluten-free options.
And there you have it – the ultimate comfort food that warms not just your plate but your heart! This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is like a hug in a dish, perfect for those busy weeknights or any cozy gathering where you want to impress without the stress. Remember, whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with those add-ins, you can’t go wrong! So, gather your loved ones, slice into that gooey goodness, and brace yourself for all the compliments that are sure to come your way. Happy cooking, and may your casseroles always be bubbly and your smiles ever wide! 🥦🧀✨
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