Cheesy Baked Broccoli Casserole

Oh, cheesy baked broccoli casserole. Just the name itself conjures up images of cozy evenings, comforting aromas wafting from the oven, and happy faces around the dinner table. Honestly, this recipe has been a lifesaver in our home. Getting my kids to eat their vegetables can sometimes feel like a Herculean task, but this casserole? It disappears in minutes! The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender-crisp broccoli, and that satisfyingly crunchy topping – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. I remember the first time I made it; my husband, who is a self-proclaimed meat-lover, went back for seconds (and thirds!). My daughter, usually skeptical of anything green, declared it her new favorite side dish. From potlucks to weeknight dinners, this cheesy baked broccoli casserole has become a staple in our kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share this incredibly easy and delicious recipe with you. Get ready to experience broccoli like never before!

Ingredients

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: (5 cups) – The star of the show, providing a healthy and slightly earthy base.
• Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup: (10.5 oz can) – Creates a creamy and savory foundation for the sauce.
• Milk: (1/2 cup) – Thins out the soup and adds richness to the sauce.
• Mayonnaise: (1/2 cup) – Adds tanginess and creaminess, binding the casserole together.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: (2 cups) – Provides that classic cheesy flavor and gooey texture.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup) – Adds a salty, nutty, and sharp flavor dimension.
• Bread Crumbs: (1/2 cup) – Creates a crispy and golden brown topping.
• Melted Butter: (2 tablespoons) – Adds flavor and helps the bread crumbs crisp up perfectly.
• Onion Powder: (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the savory flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder: (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle garlicky aroma and taste.
• Salt: (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
• Black Pepper: (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds a touch of spice and depth.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven & Prepare Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Wash and cut your fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. You can lightly steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes to tenderize it slightly, but this is optional. For a crisper casserole, you can use raw broccoli directly.
2. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture is the heart of our cheesy sauce.
3. Add Cheese and Broccoli: Stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the shredded Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture. Mix until the cheeses are mostly melted and incorporated. Then, add the broccoli florets to the bowl. Gently toss everything together ensuring the broccoli is evenly coated in the cheesy sauce.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Prepare Bread Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Toss together until the bread crumbs are evenly coated with butter. This buttery topping will create a delightful crunch.
6. Sprinkle Topping and Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the top of the broccoli casserole. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the bread crumb topping. This final layer of cheese will melt beautifully and add extra cheesiness and visual appeal.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges, the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the bread crumb topping is nicely browned and crispy.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and the flavors to meld together even more. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, based on 8 servings – approximate values)

• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
• Fat: 22g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. For accurate nutrition information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (Includes chopping broccoli and mixing ingredients)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (Baking time in the oven)
• Total Time: 50 minutes (From start to finish, ready to serve)

This cheesy baked broccoli casserole is wonderfully quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Most of the time is hands-off baking in the oven, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while dinner cooks itself!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Broccoli Casserole

This versatile casserole can be served in a variety of ways, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• As a Classic Side Dish: Pair it with roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled fish for a balanced and satisfying meal. The creamy casserole complements these main courses beautifully.
• Vegetarian Main Course: Serve a generous portion of the casserole as a hearty vegetarian main course. It’s substantial enough on its own and packed with flavor and nutrients.
• Alongside Pasta Dishes: Serve it as a side to pasta dishes like lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, or creamy pesto pasta. The creamy casserole adds a different texture and flavor dimension to pasta meals.
• With Simple Proteins: Enjoy it with simple proteins like pan-seared tofu, lentil patties, or black bean burgers for a complete vegetarian or vegan meal (if you use vegan cheese and cream of mushroom soup).
• Potluck Favorite: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday dinners. Its crowd-pleasing flavor and easy transport make it a potluck superstar.
• Comfort Food Lunch: Leftover cheesy broccoli casserole makes a delicious and comforting lunch the next day. Simply reheat and enjoy!
• Brunch Addition: Add it to your brunch spread alongside eggs, bacon (or vegetarian bacon alternatives), and pancakes for a savory and satisfying brunch option.
• Holiday Table Staple: Cheesy broccoli casserole is a welcome addition to holiday tables, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, offering a comforting and cheesy vegetable dish amidst richer holiday fare.

Additional Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Broccoli Casserole

Want to elevate your cheesy baked broccoli casserole to new culinary heights? Here are some comprehensive tips and tricks that will not only enhance the flavors but also improve the texture and presentation of your dish:

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli

One of the most crucial steps in creating the perfect cheesy baked broccoli casserole is ensuring that the broccoli retains its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Whether you opt to blanch or steam the broccoli beforehand, keep a close eye on the cooking time. Aim for a tender-crisp texture, as overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose its appealing bite. If you’re starting with raw broccoli, cut the florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole. This technique not only helps maintain the broccoli’s integrity but also allows for better distribution of flavors in every bite.

Customize Your Cheese

The cheese you choose can significantly impact the flavor profile of your casserole. While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider using Monterey Jack for a creamier texture, Gruyere for its nutty complexity, or Pepper Jack if you enjoy a little heat. A blend of Italian cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan can also bring a rich and savory depth to the dish. For those who prefer a stronger flavor, increase the amount of grated parmesan or incorporate some blue cheese for a tangy twist. Mixing different cheeses can create a multi-dimensional flavor experience that will delight your taste buds.

Spice it Up

If you’re looking to add a touch of excitement to your casserole, consider infusing some spice into your cheese sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle warmth that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish. For those who enjoy a bolder kick, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can do wonders. Be mindful to adjust the quantity according to your heat preference, and remember that you can always add more, but it’s challenging to dial back once it’s in!

Add Some Crunch Inside

Texture is an essential component of any casserole, and incorporating a crunchy element can elevate your dish significantly. Consider mixing in some crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips directly into the casserole base along with the broccoli. This not only adds a delightful crunch within the casserole but also creates a contrast to the creamy cheese sauce. Additionally, you can experiment with other crunchy toppings like toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for an extra layer of texture.

Fresh Herbs for Brightness

To brighten up the rich flavors of your cheesy baked broccoli casserole, don’t forget to incorporate fresh herbs. Stirring in freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme into the cheese sauce just before baking adds a burst of freshness and a herbaceous note that complements the dish beautifully. Adding herbs at the end of the cooking process ensures that their vibrant flavors remain intact, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.

Make it Ahead of Time

For those busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, consider assembling your casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the bread crumb topping just before placing it in the oven. Keep in mind that if you’re baking from cold, you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

Freeze for Later

One of the great benefits of a cheesy baked broccoli casserole is its freezer-friendly nature. After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through and bubbly. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners.

Upgrade the Topping

The topping of your casserole can make a significant difference in both taste and texture. Instead of using plain breadcrumbs, switch to panko breadcrumbs, which offer an extra crunch and stay crispier longer during baking. Elevate your topping by mixing in grated cheese for added flavor, or consider incorporating chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you’re not strictly vegetarian, crumbled bacon can also be a fantastic addition for those who want to add a savory, meaty element to the dish.

By following these tips, you can transform your cheesy baked broccoli casserole into an extraordinary dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family and friends!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheesy Baked Broccoli Casserole

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli florets. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the casserole. You might also want to lightly steam or sauté frozen broccoli after thawing to remove excess moisture and improve texture before baking in the casserole.

Q2: I don’t have cream of mushroom soup, can I substitute it with something else?

A: Absolutely! You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup (if not strictly vegetarian), or even cream of cheddar cheese soup. For a vegetarian alternative to cream of mushroom, you can try using a homemade white sauce (béchamel) or a can of condensed cream of potato soup, adjusting seasonings as needed.

Q3: Can I make this casserole dairy-free or vegan?

A: Yes, with some substitutions! To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup (many brands are available), dairy-free milk (like almond milk or oat milk), dairy-free mayonnaise, and vegan shredded cheese. To make it fully vegan, ensure all ingredients are plant-based, including the bread crumbs (some contain dairy).

Q4: How do I prevent the bread crumb topping from burning?

A: To prevent the bread crumb topping from burning, you can tent the casserole with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking if it’s browning too quickly. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

A: Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped cauliflower, carrots, peas, or corn to the casserole along with the broccoli. Just ensure they are cooked until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole mixture.

Q6: How long does cheesy broccoli casserole last in the refrigerator?

A: Leftover cheesy broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q7: My casserole is too watery, what did I do wrong?

A: If your casserole is too watery, it could be due to excess moisture in the broccoli. Make sure to drain frozen broccoli thoroughly after thawing, or if you blanched fresh broccoli, ensure it’s well-drained. Also, using too much milk can make it watery. Next time, try slightly reducing the amount of milk or adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the sauce mixture to thicken it.

Q8: What can I serve with cheesy broccoli casserole for a complete meal?

A: Cheesy broccoli casserole pairs well with a variety of main courses. Consider serving it with roasted chicken, baked salmon, grilled steak (if not strictly vegetarian), vegetarian lentil loaf, or a hearty salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s also great alongside pasta dishes or as part of a holiday feast.

This cheesy baked broccoli casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly versatile recipe that will become a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re looking for a way to sneak in more vegetables, need a potluck dish that everyone will love, or simply crave some cheesy comfort food, this recipe is your answer. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the cheesy, broccoli-filled goodness! Happy cooking!

Print