Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Packed with tender broccoli and melted cheddar, it’s topped with a buttery cracker crust for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

• 32 ounces frozen broccoli (2 (16-ounce) bags), thawed
• 1 large egg
• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Ensure the broccoli is fully thawed before starting. To quickly thaw, microwave broccoli at 50% power until no longer frozen but still cool to the touch.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
4. Step 4: Gently stir in the thawed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese, making sure the broccoli is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out into an even layer.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top, then drizzle with the melted butter.
7. Step 7: Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the crackers turn golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
• Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra flavor and protein.
• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper, richer taste.
• Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; blanch it briefly before mixing.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave until warmed through or in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to maintain the crunchy topping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead. Cover it tightly and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.

What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, crushed salted crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes work well as a crunchy topping.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 139 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish featuring tender broccoli mixed with a flavorful sauce, cheddar cheese, and topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a main for cheese lovers, it combines simple ingredients into a warm, baked casserole that is both easy to prepare and delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 32 ounces frozen broccoli (2 (16-ounce) bags), thawed

Wet Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)

Dry Ingredients & Spices

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers

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Instructions

1. Thaw Broccoli: Ensure the frozen broccoli is fully thawed before starting. To speed this up, microwave at 50% power until no longer frozen but still cool to the touch.
2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients and Spices: In a large bowl, whisk together the large egg, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika until fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine Broccoli and Cheese: Gently stir the thawed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture, making sure the broccoli is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer for uniform baking.
6. Add Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the casserole, then drizzle with the melted unsalted butter to create a golden, crispy crust.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the casserole is thoroughly heated through.

Notes

• Microwaving the broccoli for thawing avoids extra water that can make the casserole soggy.
• You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian variation.
• To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soup and unsalted crackers.
• Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Feel free to add cooked chicken or bacon for an extra protein boost.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheese casserole, baked broccoli, comfort food, cheesy broccoli bake, easy side dish