There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort to the table.
This Best Ever Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the perfect side dish for holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy family meal.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can customize it with ingredients like Cheese Whiz, rice, or buttery Ritz crackers for a delicious twist.
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Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering casserole:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional but highly recommended)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for the Ritz cracker topping)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Cheese Whiz (for an extra creamy, cheesy flavor)
- 1 cup cooked white rice (for a heartier, more filling casserole)
These optional ingredients let you customize the casserole to suit your family’s tastes. Feel free to mix and match for your perfect version of this classic dish.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your unforgettable Broccoli Cheese Casserole:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, you can start preparing the casserole ingredients.
2. Cook the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 3–4 minutes until it’s bright green and slightly tender. For frozen broccoli, you can microwave it for about 3–5 minutes until thawed. Drain any excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using Cheese Whiz, now’s the time to stir it in. This step is crucial to ensure the mixture is smooth and creamy, which makes every bite irresistibly rich.
4. Add the Broccoli and Optional Rice
Add the steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and gently fold it together. If you’re adding cooked rice to the casserole, mix it in at this step. The rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making the dish even more filling and satisfying. Be careful not to mash the broccoli as you mix.
5. Transfer to the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Add the Topping
For a crispy, buttery topping, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If you prefer an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole before adding the Ritz topping. This creates a golden, cheesy crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
7. Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top. The smell of melted cheese and buttery crackers will fill your kitchen, letting you know it’s almost time to eat.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This short resting time helps the cheese sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy the casserole as a stand-alone meal or as a hearty side dish alongside chicken, steak, or a holiday roast.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well, but fresh broccoli has a firmer texture. If you’re short on time, frozen is perfectly fine as long as it’s drained thoroughly.
- Don’t Skip the Topping: The buttery Ritz cracker topping adds crunch and flavor. You can also use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs as alternatives.
- Cheese Choice Matters: Sharp cheddar cheese offers the most flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
Variations
- Cheesy Rice Broccoli Casserole: Add 1 cup of cooked white rice to the mixture for a more filling dish.
- Extra Cheesy Version: Add 1/2 cup of Cheese Whiz to the cheese mixture for even creamier, cheesier bites.
- Protein-Packed Casserole: Add cooked, shredded chicken or ground beef to turn this side dish into a full-on meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom to keep this dish 100% vegetarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can try Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it straight from the fridge, adding 5–10 minutes to the cook time.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Final Thoughts
This Best Ever Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comfort-food classic for good reason. The rich, creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and crunchy topping create a dish that’s equal parts cozy and irresistible. With the flexibility to customize it using Cheese Whiz, rice, or buttery Ritz crackers, you’ll never get bored of this recipe. Make it for your next family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, and watch as it becomes an instant favorite.
Meta Description: This Best Ever Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe features creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that’s simply irresistible.
