Broccoli Casserole Recipe (with Video)

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Broccoli Casserole Recipe: Looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that brings warmth to your table? Broccoli casserole is a perfect choice!

This comforting dish combines tender broccoli florets with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs or crackers for that satisfying crunch.

Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, broccoli casserole is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients for Broccoli Casserole

Before we get started, let’s gather everything you need to make this dish a success.

Core Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for non-vegetarians)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 tbsp butter (melted)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • Diced onions or garlic for an extra layer of flavor
  • Cooked bacon bits or diced ham for added protein
  • Chopped almonds or pecans for a nutty crunch

Substitutions:

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.
  • Opt for vegan cheese and cream for a dairy-free version.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Essential Tools:

  • A large pot for blanching broccoli
  • A mixing bowl
  • A whisk for the sauce
  • A casserole dish (9×13 inches recommended)
  • Aluminum foil for baking

Optional Tools:

  • Food processor for finely crushing crackers
  • A cheese grater for freshly shredded cheese

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Selecting Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green broccoli with firm stems. Avoid yellow or wilting florets, as they indicate the broccoli isn’t fresh.

2. Washing and Cutting: Rinse the broccoli thoroughly under cold water and pat dry. Chop into bite-sized florets for even cooking.

3. Prepping Other Ingredients:

  • Shred your cheese if using a block (pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture).
  • Crush crackers or prepare breadcrumbs for topping.
  • Measure out the cream, milk, and seasonings to keep things organized.

How to Make Broccoli Casserole – Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
  • Spread the blanched broccoli in an even layer in the casserole dish.
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, ensuring every piece is coated.
  • Mix breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pairing Broccoli Casserole with Main Dishes: Broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or baked ham. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a hearty quinoa salad.

2. Presentation Tips for a Feast-worthy Look: Garnish your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of paprika for a pop of color. Use a decorative casserole dish to elevate the visual appeal of the dish on your dinner table.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Broccoli Casserole

1. Choosing the Right Cheese: Go for cheeses with good melting properties, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere. Avoid overly processed cheeses, as they can result in a greasy texture.

2. Preventing a Watery Casserole: Blanching the broccoli properly and patting it dry before assembling the casserole is crucial. Excess moisture can make the casserole soggy.

3. Enhancing Texture and Flavor: For an extra crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of garlic powder and parmesan cheese before topping. Want more zest? Add a dash of mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese sauce.

Variations of Broccoli Casserole

1. Vegetarian Variations: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms for a fresh and flavorful vegetarian option.

2. Protein-packed Options: Add diced chicken, turkey, or even crumbled sausage for a hearty, protein-rich version.

3. Vegan-friendly Alternatives: Use plant-based cream, vegan cheese, and nutritional yeast for a casserole that’s dairy-free but still delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli turns mushy and loses its vibrant green color. Stick to the blanching time of 2-3 minutes for the perfect texture.

2. Skipping the Blanching Step: Skipping blanching can result in undercooked broccoli, making the casserole less enjoyable. This step ensures even cooking and locks in the broccoli’s bright color.

3. Using the Wrong Type of Cheese: Cheeses that don’t melt smoothly can create clumps instead of a creamy sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often has additives that inhibit melting.

Health Benefits of Broccoli Casserole

1. Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli: Broccoli is packed with vitamins C, K, and A, as well as fiber and antioxidants. It supports immune health, improves digestion, and contributes to overall wellness.

2. How to Make a Healthier Version:

  • Use low-fat cream or milk to reduce calories.
  • Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed whole-grain crackers for added fiber.
  • Add spinach or kale to increase the nutrient content of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

1. Properly Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the casserole, covered with foil, for 20-25 minutes. This prevents the topping from burning while warming the dish evenly.

3. Can You Freeze Broccoli Casserole? Yes! Assemble the casserole but skip the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

FAQs about Broccoli Casserole Recipe

What ingredients are needed for a broccoli casserole?

A classic broccoli casserole recipe typically requires fresh or frozen broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, eggs, mayonnaise, and a crunchy topping like cracker crumbs or fried onions. Variations might include adding rice, chicken, or different types of cheese for a heartier dish.

How long does it take to prepare and cook broccoli casserole?

Preparation time for broccoli casserole is generally about 15-20 minutes. Cooking time can vary but usually takes about 30-35 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C). Ensure the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown before removing it from the oven.

Can broccoli casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes, broccoli casserole is an excellent dish for preparing ahead. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply add a few minutes to the baking time since you’re starting from a cold state.

Is broccoli casserole suitable for freezing?

Broccoli casserole freezes well. Cool the cooked casserole completely, then cover it tightly with both plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

What are some tips for making the best broccoli casserole?

For the best broccoli casserole, consider lightly steaming the broccoli first to ensure it’s tender but not mushy. Mixing in a sharp cheddar gives a richer flavor, and for a crispier topping, add the cracker crumbs or fried onions in the last 10 minutes of baking to keep them from getting too soggy.

Conclusion

Broccoli casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—simple to prepare yet packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers a versatile and satisfying addition to your meal. By following the step-by-step guide and trying out the suggested variations, you can customize it to suit any palate.

Enjoy this classic dish, and happy cooking!