Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This creamy broccoli casserole is a comforting and cheesy side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. With tender broccoli smothered in a rich sauce and topped with a buttery cracker crunch, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using fresh broccoli)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup for non-vegetarian)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until tender but still bright green, about 5-6 minutes. Drain well and set aside. For frozen broccoli, thaw completely and drain any excess moisture.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and mix to incorporate.
3. Step 3: Add the prepared broccoli to the sauce mixture and stir until the florets are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Transfer the broccoli mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness.
6. Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy broccoli delight!

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, mix in cooked diced onions or mushrooms before baking.
• Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a non-vegetarian option.
• Try substituting the cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
• Sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top for an extra savory touch.
• If you prefer a lighter version, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the topping crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli directly without thawing?

It’s best to thaw and drain frozen broccoli thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the cracker topping just before baking to keep it crisp.

Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.9 from 109 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy broccoli casserole is a comforting and cheesy baked dish featuring tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich sauce made with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Topped with a buttery crushed cracker crust and extra cheese, it’s an easy-to-make side perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using fresh broccoli)

Creamy Sauce

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup for non-vegetarian)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until they are tender but still bright green, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain well and set aside. For frozen broccoli, thaw completely and drain any excess water to prevent sogginess.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup) and mix again.
3. Combine with Broccoli: Add the cooked broccoli florets to the creamy sauce mixture. Gently stir to coat all the broccoli evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Transfer the broccoli and sauce mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
5. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the broccoli casserole. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to add an extra cheesy layer.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole!

Notes

• You can substitute cream of chicken soup if you prefer a non-vegetarian version.
• If using frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• To make this casserole ahead, assemble everything up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers for the topping.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the creamy sauce can enhance the flavor subtly if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheesy broccoli bake, creamy broccoli casserole, easy casserole recipes, baked vegetable casserole, comfort food, vegetarian casserole