Creamy Broccoli Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Side Dish

Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

This irresistible broccoli casserole combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a crispy buttery topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect as a holiday side dish or weeknight dinner addition, this comforting casserole transforms the humble broccoli into a family favorite that even vegetable skeptics will love.

Why This Broccoli Casserole Recipe Works

There’s something magical about the combination of fresh broccoli and melted cheese that makes this casserole completely irresistible. The creamy sauce coats every floret while the buttery cracker topping adds the perfect contrasting crunch. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between wholesome vegetables and indulgent comfort food.

Whether you’re serving it alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or weeknight roast chicken, this versatile side dish complements virtually any main course. Even better? It can be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday meals or hectic weeknights.

Ingredients for the Best Broccoli Casserole

• 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups butter crackers (like Ritz), crushed
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

How to Make This Easy Broccoli Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Add the blanched broccoli to the mixture and fold gently until all florets are evenly coated.
5. Transfer the broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter until well combined.
7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the broccoli mixture, then top with the buttered cracker crumbs.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the casserole set.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

• Drain broccoli thoroughly: Excess water will make your casserole runny, so make sure your broccoli is well-drained after blanching.
• Customize your cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. A mix of cheddar and Gruyère or Monterey Jack adds wonderful complexity.
• Fresh vs. frozen broccoli: While fresh broccoli provides the best texture, you can use frozen in a pinch. Just thaw and drain very well before using.
• Make ahead option: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Lighten it up: For a lighter version, substitute light mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese (though the texture may be slightly different).

Variations to Try

• Protein-packed: Add 2 cups of diced cooked chicken or turkey to make this a complete meal.
• Rice addition: Mix in 2 cups of cooked rice for a more substantial side dish.
• Vegetable medley: Add 1 cup of cauliflower florets or sliced mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Extra crunch: Mix ½ cup of chopped toasted almonds or water chestnuts into the casserole for surprising texture.

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Casserole

Can I make broccoli casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When ready to serve, add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the refrigerator.

Can I freeze broccoli casserole?

Absolutely. This broccoli casserole freezes beautifully. Prepare it completely but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What can I serve with broccoli casserole?

This versatile side dish pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, baked ham, grilled chicken, or meatloaf. It’s especially popular during holiday meals but works just as well for everyday dinners.

Can I use a different soup instead of cream of mushroom?

Certainly! Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works wonderfully as substitutes if you’re not a fan of mushrooms.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Broccoli Casserole

This broccoli casserole recipe has stood the test of time for good reason—it transforms a simple vegetable into a crowd-pleasing dish that disappears quickly at any gathering. The combination of creamy sauce, tender broccoli, and crunchy topping creates a perfect textural balance that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this foolproof recipe delivers impressive results every time, making it a valuable addition to your recipe collection.