Broccoli Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to satisfying side dishes that double as a main course, nothing beats a warm, bubbly broccoli casserole fresh out of the oven. It’s hearty, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a potluck dinner, or simply want a cozy family meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent, broccoli casserole is always a winner.

This humble casserole has stood the test of time for good reason—it’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. With a base of fresh broccoli, creamy soup, cheddar cheese, and a golden buttery cracker topping, it brings together texture and flavor in every bite.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to master this dish—from a detailed recipe to smart cooking tips, creative variations, serving ideas, and answers to all your frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Casserole

There are dozens of side dishes you could make, but here’s why this one stands out:

• Incredibly easy to prepare – Just steam, mix, top, and bake.
• Only a few ingredients – Most of which you already have at home.
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved – Thanks to the cheese and buttery topping.
• Versatile – Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
• Great for make-ahead meals – You can prep it in advance and bake later.

Broccoli casserole combines everything you love about comfort food into one easy, satisfying dish.

Ingredients for the Best Broccoli Casserole

Let’s start with the basics. Here’s what you’ll need to make the classic broccoli casserole recipe:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed & drained)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 tbsp melted butter

These ingredients strike the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy richness and a crispy, buttery topping. Plus, with fresh broccoli, you get a serving of vegetables packed with nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar size. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Steam the Broccoli

Steam your broccoli for 3–5 minutes until it’s just fork-tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s completely thawed and well-drained. Avoid over-steaming—mushy broccoli will ruin the texture of your casserole.

3. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise or sour cream, beaten egg, garlic powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and evenly combined.

4. Add the Broccoli

Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the creamy mixture. Make sure all the florets are well coated.

5. Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour the broccoli mixture into your prepared dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.

6. Make the Topping

In a small bowl, mix your crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. This is where the magic happens—the topping creates a beautiful golden crust with a delightful crunch.

7. Top and Bake

Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in your preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Casserole

Want to level up your broccoli casserole game? Here are some expert tips:

• Drain your broccoli well. Excess moisture will make the casserole watery.
• Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheesy flavor.
• Add seasoning to taste. You can include a pinch of onion powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for heat.
• Make it ahead. Prepare the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Double it. Feeding a crowd? Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch dish.

Creative Variations You’ll Want to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you can easily mix things up with these creative takes:

1. Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Add 1–2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken to the mixture before baking for a heartier, protein-packed dish.

2. Broccoli Rice Casserole

Stir in 1 cup of cooked rice for extra body and texture. Brown rice or wild rice adds a nutty flavor.

3. Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

Use a mix of steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets for a colorful, nutrient-dense twist.

4. Low-Carb Version

Swap the crackers for pork rinds or almond flour crumbs if you’re watching your carbs.

5. Extra Cheesy

Mix in Parmesan or mozzarella with the cheddar for a deeper cheese flavor and gooier texture.

What to Serve with Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli casserole is so satisfying, it could be the star of your meal. But if you’re serving it as a side, here are some ideal pairings:

• Grilled or roasted chicken
• Baked ham or turkey
• Stuffed pork chops
• Meatloaf or Salisbury steak
• Mac and cheese (for a comfort food feast)
• Fresh salads or roasted vegetables

It also makes an excellent contribution to potlucks, holiday dinners, or Sunday suppers.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Broccoli casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

To Store:

• Allow to cool completely.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To Freeze:

• Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

To Reheat:

• Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through (15–20 minutes).
• Or microwave single portions for 1–2 minutes.

Is Broccoli Casserole Healthy?

It depends on the ingredients you use. Traditional versions use mayonnaise, canned soup, and cheese, which are rich and indulgent. But you can absolutely make it lighter:

• Use low-fat sour cream instead of mayonnaise.
• Choose reduced-fat cheese.
• Swap cream of mushroom for homemade cream sauce with skim milk.
• Add more broccoli or substitute half with cauliflower or spinach.

Even with the classic ingredients, you’re getting fiber, vitamins C and K, and a good amount of protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli for broccoli casserole?

Yes! Just be sure it’s completely thawed and well-drained before mixing it into the casserole.

Can I make broccoli casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

What other cheeses can I use?

Try Monterey Jack, Swiss, Gruyère, or a combination of different cheeses for more flavor depth.

Can I skip the crackers on top?

Yes, though the crunchy topping is a classic. For a healthier option, use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes.

Can I use cream of chicken instead of mushroom?

Definitely! Cream of chicken, celery, or even cheddar soup all work well in this recipe.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, if you use a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup. Always check the label to ensure no meat-based broths are included.

Conclusion: Broccoli Casserole is the Ultimate Comfort Side Dish

There’s something timeless and satisfying about a bubbling dish of broccoli casserole straight from the oven. It checks all the boxes—creamy, cheesy, crunchy, and veggie-packed. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a comforting dinner with family, this dish delivers every single time.

Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to be a hit, this broccoli casserole recipe should definitely have a spot in your regular rotation. Don’t be surprised when it becomes the most requested side dish at your next gathering.

Ready to make it tonight? You’ve got everything you need. Get cooking—and enjoy every bite of that golden, cheesy, broccoli-filled goodness.

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