Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

There are some dishes that are simply timeless, recipes that evoke feelings of warmth, home, and pure comfort with every single bite. For my family, Cheddar Broccoli Casserole is unequivocally one of those dishes. From chaotic weeknight dinners to relaxed Sunday suppers, this casserole has graced our table countless times, always met with enthusiastic cheers and empty plates. Honestly, I can’t count how many times I’ve been asked for this recipe by friends and neighbors after they’ve tasted it at potlucks or gatherings. It’s that good! The creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping tender broccoli florets, topped with a satisfyingly crunchy breadcrumb crust – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that just works. Even my pickiest eater, who once declared broccoli his arch-nemesis, happily devours this casserole without a single complaint. If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further. This Cheddar Broccoli Casserole recipe is your answer. Get ready to experience a true classic, reimagined for today’s busy kitchens, and prepare to fall in love with this cheesy, broccoli-filled delight just like my family has.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

To create this comforting classic, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole so irresistible. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Broccoli Florets: (3 pounds, fresh or frozen) – The star of the show! Fresh broccoli provides a slightly firmer texture, while frozen broccoli is incredibly convenient and works just as well. Ensure your broccoli is cut into bite-sized florets for even cooking and easy eating.
• Cheddar Cheese: (2 cups, shredded, sharp or medium) – The heart of the cheesy goodness. Sharp cheddar delivers a bolder flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, while medium cheddar offers a milder, more balanced taste. Feel free to experiment with a blend of both!
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: (2 cans, 10.5 ounces each) – The creamy base of our casserole. Cream of mushroom soup provides a velvety texture and savory depth. You can also use cream of celery or chicken soup as a substitute for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Milk: (1/2 cup) – Thins out the soup and creates the perfect creamy consistency for the sauce. Whole milk will result in a richer sauce, but 2% or even skim milk can be used as well.
• Butter: (1/4 cup, melted) – Used both in the sauce for richness and to mix with the breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy topping. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Bread Crumbs: (1 cup, panko or regular) – Adds a delightful crunch to the top of the casserole. Panko bread crumbs offer a lighter, crispier texture, while regular bread crumbs provide a more classic, dense topping.
• Onion: (1/2 cup, finely chopped) – Adds a subtle savory flavor base to the casserole. Yellow or white onions work best and should be finely chopped so they cook through evenly.
• Garlic: (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent aroma. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best taste, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Salt and Black Pepper: (To taste) – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the casserole. Season generously but taste as you go.
• Optional: Paprika: (1 teaspoon) – Adds a touch of smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the breadcrumb topping. Smoked or sweet paprika both work well.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

Creating this comforting casserole is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these easy steps to bring this family favorite to your own table:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. If using fresh broccoli, wash it thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it slightly and drain off any excess water. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
2. Cook the Broccoli (Optional but Recommended): While you can assemble the casserole with raw broccoli, pre-cooking it slightly ensures it’s tender and not crunchy in the final dish. There are several ways to do this:
   • Steaming: Steam the broccoli florets over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp and bright green. This method retains the most nutrients and flavor.
   • Boiling: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and retain the vibrant green color.
   • Microwaving: Place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water. Cover and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Check for doneness after 3 minutes and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals if needed.
   • Roasting (Adds Flavor!): Toss broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly tender and lightly browned. Roasting brings out a deeper, more caramelized flavor in the broccoli.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: While the broccoli is cooking (or if you’re skipping pre-cooking), melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sautéing the onion and garlic upfront adds a depth of flavor to the sauce that is worth the extra step.
4. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients and create a smooth sauce. This forms the creamy, flavorful base that coats the broccoli and binds the casserole together.
5. Combine Broccoli and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked (or raw) broccoli florets and the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the cream sauce. Gently toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated in the cheesy sauce. Ensure the cheese is well distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly in the dish for uniform baking.
7. Make the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. If using, add paprika at this stage for color and flavor. Toss together until the bread crumbs are evenly coated with butter and paprika (if using).
8. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the top of the broccoli and cheese mixture in the baking dish. This creates a delicious, crispy crust as the casserole bakes.
9. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be melted and gooey, and the casserole should be heated throughout.
10. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. The aroma at this point will be incredibly tempting! Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness of your homemade Cheddar Broccoli Casserole!

Nutrition Facts for Cheddar Broccoli Casserole (Per Serving)

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for making informed dietary choices. Keep in mind that these are approximate values and can vary slightly depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes. This is based on a recipe serving approximately 8 people.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving. This value provides a general idea of the energy content in each portion of the casserole.
• Total Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving. This includes saturated and unsaturated fats, primarily from the cheese, butter, and cream of mushroom soup.
• Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving. Protein content comes from the cheese and, to a lesser extent, the broccoli and cream of mushroom soup. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving. Carbohydrates are mainly from the bread crumbs, cream of mushroom soup, and broccoli.
• Fiber: Approximately 3-5 grams per serving. Broccoli is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.

Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time for Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

From start to finish, this Cheddar Broccoli Casserole is a relatively quick and easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables (onion, garlic, broccoli if using fresh), pre-cooking broccoli (if desired), grating cheese, and measuring out ingredients.
• Cook Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes. This is the baking time in the oven.
• Total Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes. From start to finish, you can have a warm, comforting Cheddar Broccoli Casserole on the table in under an hour.

This timing makes it a fantastic option for a weeknight meal when you want something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

Cheddar Broccoli Casserole is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It’s a fantastic side dish, but it can also be a satisfying vegetarian main course. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish:
  • Alongside Roasted Chicken or Pork: The creamy casserole complements the savory flavors of roasted meats beautifully.
  • With Grilled Steak or Salmon: A comforting and cheesy counterpoint to grilled proteins.
  • Paired with Meatloaf or Burgers: A classic pairing for family-friendly meals.
  • As part of a Holiday Meal: A welcome addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner spreads.
• As a Vegetarian Main Course:
  • Served with a Side Salad: A simple green salad or a vibrant tomato salad provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole.
  • With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy sauce.
  • Alongside a Light Soup: A light vegetable soup or a clear broth soup can create a balanced vegetarian meal.
• For Potlucks and Gatherings:
  • Transport in the Baking Dish: Easy to transport and serve directly from the dish.
  • Keeps Well at Room Temperature for a Short Period: Ideal for buffets and potlucks, although it’s best served warm.
  • Always a Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting flavors make it a hit with people of all ages.

Additional Tips for the Best Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

Want to take your Cheddar Broccoli Casserole to the next level? Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure success every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Whether you choose to pre-cook or not, avoid overcooking the broccoli. It should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked broccoli will become soft and lose its texture in the casserole.
2. Use Good Quality Cheese: The quality of your cheddar cheese significantly impacts the flavor of the casserole. Opt for a good quality sharp or medium cheddar for the best taste. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect melting. Shredding your own cheese from a block is recommended for smoother melting.
3. Adjust Cheese to Your Preference: Love extra cheesy? Feel free to add more cheese! You can also experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all be delicious additions.
4. Spice it Up! For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce. You could also incorporate a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the sauce for added depth of flavor.
5. Customize the Topping: Get creative with your topping! Besides bread crumbs, consider using crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines), crumbled potato chips, or even fried onions for a different texture and flavor.
6. Make it Ahead of Time: Assemble the casserole completely, up to the point of baking, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This is a great time-saving tip for busy days.
7. Freeze for Later: Cheddar Broccoli Casserole freezes beautifully. Bake the casserole as directed, let it cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. You can also bake it from frozen, but it will take longer.
8. Add Protein for a Heartier Meal: Turn this side dish into a complete meal by adding cooked protein. Shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, crumbled bacon, or even cooked ground beef or sausage would all be delicious additions. Simply stir the cooked protein into the broccoli and cheese mixture before assembling the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

Have questions about making the perfect Cheddar Broccoli Casserole? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you along the way:

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient and perfectly acceptable substitute for fresh broccoli in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it slightly and drain off any excess water before using it in the casserole to prevent a watery dish.

Q2: Can I make this casserole without cream of mushroom soup?
A: Yes, you can! You can make your own cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. Alternatively, you can use cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, or even a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup for a slightly different flavor.

Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator unbaked for up to 24 hours. This is a great way to save time on busy days. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.

Q4: How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
A: Ensure you drain any excess water from thawed frozen broccoli. Also, avoid adding too much milk to the sauce. If your broccoli is very wet after cooking, you can gently pat it dry with paper towels before adding it to the cheese sauce.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A: Definitely! Consider adding cooked cauliflower, carrots, peas, or corn to the casserole for extra vegetables and flavor. Just be sure to keep the total vegetable quantity roughly the same to maintain the sauce-to-vegetable ratio.

Q6: What kind of bread crumbs are best for the topping?
A: Panko bread crumbs provide a lighter, crispier topping, while regular bread crumbs offer a more classic, dense topping. You can use either depending on your preference. You can also use seasoned bread crumbs for extra flavor.

Q7: How do I reheat leftover Cheddar Broccoli Casserole?
A: Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the topping may not be as crispy.

Q8: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, with a few substitutions. Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup (many brands are available), gluten-free bread crumbs for the topping, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels carefully to confirm.

This Cheddar Broccoli Casserole recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting classic that brings people together. Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your own kitchen, just like it is in mine. Enjoy the cheesy, broccoli-filled goodness!

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