Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a comforting side dish packed with flavor. It's perfect for holiday meals, family dinners, or even as a weekly go-to. The broccoli becomes tender and flavorful, while the cheese melts beautifully, bringing the whole dish together. With a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, this casserole hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, and just the right amount of crunch.

Ingredients

• Fresh Broccoli Florets
• Cream of Chicken Soup
• Mayonnaise (or Miracle Whip)
• Butter
• Eggs
• Onion
• Salt & Black Pepper
• Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Ritz Crackers (for topping)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Steam the broccoli until tender, but not too soft.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, butter, eggs, onion, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the steamed broccoli and mix well.
5. Stir in the extra sharp cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
7. Crumble Ritz crackers on top for a crunchy, buttery finish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including prep time)

Variations

• You can substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if preferred.
• For a vegetarian option, swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup.
• Add cooked chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. For a crispy topping, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well to avoid excess water in the casserole.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make this dairy-free, use dairy-free mayonnaise, non-dairy cheese, and a plant-based butter alternative.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it for up to 2 months.

How can I make the casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use mozzarella, gouda, or even a mild cheddar depending on your preference.

How do I avoid overcooking the broccoli?

Steam the broccoli just until it's tender enough to poke with a fork but not mushy. This will help it retain its texture in the casserole.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

You can substitute crushed saltine crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed tortilla chips for a similar crunchy topping.

Can I make this casserole without eggs?

Yes, you can leave out the eggs, but they help bind the ingredients together. Consider adding a bit more mayonnaise to help with consistency.

Is this casserole good for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This casserole keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it a great option for meal prep.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is the perfect side dish for any meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, it’s the comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again.