Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your next favorite broccoli casserole:

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 bunches), for the best texture and vibrant green color.
• 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade), providing the creamy base.
• 1 cup mayonnaise, adding richness and binding the sauce.
• 2 large eggs, helping to set the casserole.
• 2 Tablespoons dried minced onion, for a subtle savory depth.
• 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, delivering that signature cheesy flavor.
• 1 cup cheese crackers, crushed, for a crispy, flavorful topping.

Notes & Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your pantry or preferences. Feel free to use frozen broccoli; just thaw and drain it well to prevent a watery casserole. For the soup, consider a homemade cream of chicken or mushroom soup for a lighter option. Experiment with different cheeses like Colby Jack, Gruyere, or even a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar. Instead of cheese crackers, try crushed Ritz crackers, buttered breadcrumbs, or French fried onions for the topping. If using fresh onion, sauté 1/4 cup diced onion before adding it to the mixture. Greek yogurt or sour cream can substitute mayonnaise for a tangier flavor and lighter profile.

Equipment

You will need just a few basic kitchen tools to make this easy casserole:

• A large pot for blanching the broccoli.
• A spacious mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
• A greased 2-quart casserole dish (or 8×8 inch baking dish) for baking.
• Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect broccoli casserole:

1. Prep the broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the fresh broccoli florets and boil for just 2 minutes. This brief blanching ensures the broccoli is tender-crisp, not mushy. Blanching is a quick cooking method that helps preserve the vegetable’s color, texture, and nutritional value, as detailed in this guide on the purpose and benefits of blanching vegetables. Drain the blanched broccoli thoroughly in a colander. Pat it dry with paper towels if you notice excess moisture.
2. Make the creamy sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and eggs. Whisk them together until smooth. Stir in the dried minced onion and the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the sauce is creamy.
3. Assemble the casserole: Add the drained, blanched broccoli florets to the creamy sauce mixture in the bowl. Gently toss the broccoli with a spoon or spatula, ensuring every floret is thoroughly coated in the cheesy sauce. Transfer the entire mixture evenly into your greased 2-quart casserole dish.
4. Add the topping: Place your cheese crackers in a Ziploc bag and crush them thoroughly using a rolling pin, or pulse them in a food processor. Sprinkle the crushed cheese crackers generously and evenly over the top of the broccoli mixture in the casserole dish.
5. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The casserole is done when it’s bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Casserole

Achieve perfect results every time with these helpful tips. To prevent soggy broccoli, always blanch it briefly and drain it very well before adding it to the sauce. For optimal cheesy melt, use freshly grated sharp cheddar; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that hinder smooth melting. This is because anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese can interfere with its ability to melt smoothly, as explained in this article about the impact of anti-caking agents on cheese melting. Ensure a perfectly crispy topping by crushing your crackers just before sprinkling and baking until deeply golden. Adjust seasoning to your preference by adding a pinch of garlic powder or black pepper to the sauce. The best way to tell it’s done is when the edges are bubbling vigorously and the topping is a rich golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.

Serving, Storage & Variations

Serving Suggestions

This versatile broccoli casserole makes an excellent side dish for many meals. Pair it with holiday roasts like turkey or ham for a festive spread. It also complements weeknight proteins such as baked chicken breasts, pork chops, or meatloaf. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a lighter option. This comforting casserole truly enhances any meal.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover casserole properly to maintain freshness. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Make Ahead Instructions

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble the entire casserole, including the broccoli and sauce, up to 1-2 days in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just before baking, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, add the crushed crackers and bake as directed. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with your broccoli casserole! For a slightly healthier adjustment, substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream. Incorporate other vegetables like diced carrots, chopped bell peppers, or corn kernels for added color and nutrients. You can also introduce protein by mixing in cooked, shredded chicken, diced ham, or crispy bacon bits. Spice it up with a pinch of red chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Experiment with different cracker toppings, such as buttery Ritz crackers, savory garlic breadcrumbs, or even crushed crispy fried onions for different textures.

Nutrition Information

Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate based on the ingredients and serving size provided. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands, preparation methods, and exact ingredient quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Thaw frozen broccoli completely and drain it very well before mixing it into the sauce to prevent a watery casserole.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

Reduce fat by using low-fat mayonnaise and soup. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, and substitute some mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping) up to two days in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add the topping and bake when ready.

What kind of cheese works best for broccoli casserole?

Sharp cheddar is classic for its robust flavor and good melt. However, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses also work wonderfully.

How do I prevent a watery broccoli casserole?

The key is thoroughly draining the broccoli after blanching, whether fresh or frozen. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture before combining with the sauce.

Conclusion

This easy cheesy broccoli casserole truly delivers on comfort and flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy texture and satisfying cheesy crunch make it a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to whip up this delicious side dish; it’s a perfect way to bring a smile to your family’s faces. Enjoy the simplicity and the incredible taste of this classic recipe!