Creamy Broccoli Casserole

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, bubbly casserole, especially when it’s packed with tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. For years, my family has been obsessed with this Creamy Broccoli Casserole recipe, and it’s become a staple at our holiday gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. Even my pickiest eater, my youngest niece, can’t resist a scoop (or two!). What I love most is how incredibly easy it is to throw together with simple, everyday ingredients, yet it always delivers on flavor and satisfaction. The crispy topping adds the perfect textural contrast to the creamy interior, making every bite a delight. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly versatile, look no further. This Creamy Broccoli Casserole is guaranteed to become a new family favorite in your home too!

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Creamy Broccoli Casserole

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients to create a truly delicious and comforting Creamy Broccoli Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Broccoli: 1 large head (about 6 cups florets), provides the main body and healthy goodness of the casserole. Fresh broccoli offers the best texture and flavor, but frozen can be used in a pinch (see tips below).
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 2 cans (10.5 ounces each), forms the creamy base of the sauce and adds a savory, umami depth. You can substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup for variations.
• Mayonnaise: 1 cup, contributes to the creamy texture and richness of the sauce, also adding a slight tanginess that balances the flavors. Use full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, divided, provides cheesy flavor throughout the casserole and a golden, melted topping. Sharp cheddar offers a bolder flavor, but mild or a blend can also be used.
• Onion: ½ medium, finely chopped, adds a subtle savory and aromatic base to the casserole. Yellow or white onion works well.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, used to sauté the onion and adds richness to the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, enhances the savory flavors of the casserole and adds a subtle aromatic touch.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and balances the overall seasoning. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, adds a touch of spice and complexity to the flavor profile. Adjust to taste.
• Bread Crumbs or Crushed Crackers (Ritz or similar): 1 cup, for the topping, provides a delightful crispy texture that contrasts with the creamy casserole. Panko bread crumbs offer extra crispness.
• Paprika (Optional): ½ teaspoon, for garnish, adds a touch of color and a slightly smoky flavor to the topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Follow these simple steps to create a foolproof and delicious Creamy Broccoli Casserole every time.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven preheats, wash and cut your fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. You want them to be roughly the same size for even cooking.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing the onion first mellows its flavor and prevents it from being crunchy in the casserole.
3. Cook the Broccoli (Optional but Recommended): For the best texture, lightly cook the broccoli before adding it to the casserole. You have a few options:
   • Steaming: Steam the broccoli florets for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking, as they will cook further in the oven.
   • Boiling: Briefly boil the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes in salted water, until slightly tender. Drain well.
   • Microwaving: Place broccoli florets in a microwave-safe dish with a couple tablespoons of water. Cover and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
   • Note: If you prefer a firmer broccoli, you can skip this pre-cooking step, but the casserole will take slightly longer to bake and the broccoli might be a bit crunchier.
4. Combine the Creamy Sauce Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is smoothly incorporated. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole.
5. Add Broccoli and Onion to Sauce: Add the cooked broccoli florets and the sautéed onion to the creamy sauce mixture in the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even baking and topping distribution.
7. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs or crushed crackers and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup). Mix well. If desired, sprinkle paprika over the topping for color and a hint of flavor.
8. Sprinkle Topping Over Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the bread crumb and cheese topping over the broccoli mixture in the baking dish. This topping will create a delicious crispy crust as it 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 topping is golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned.
10. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Broccoli Casserole

This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. Per serving (approx. 1 cup), based on 8 servings:

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal. Provides energy to fuel your body.
• Fat: Approximately 20-25g. Contributes to satiety and flavor, primarily from mayonnaise and cheese.
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 8-12g. Consider using reduced-fat mayonnaise and cheese to lower saturated fat content.
• Sodium: Approximately 500-700mg. Primarily from processed ingredients like cream of mushroom soup and cheese. Choose low-sodium soup options if desired.
• Protein: Approximately 8-10g. From cheese and broccoli, important for building and repairing tissues.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate only. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands.

Preparation Time Breakdown for Creamy Broccoli Casserole

This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight meals or potlucks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes. This includes washing and cutting broccoli, chopping onion, sautéing onion, and mixing ingredients.
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes. Baking time in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes. From start to finish, ready to serve in under an hour.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Creamy Broccoli Casserole is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Classic Side Dish:
  • Pair with roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak for a comforting family meal.
  • Serve alongside Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham as a traditional holiday side.
  • Accompany meatloaf, pot roast, or pork chops for a hearty weeknight dinner.
• As a Vegetarian Main Course (with additions):
  • Add cooked quinoa or brown rice to the casserole for added protein and fiber to make it a more substantial vegetarian meal.
  • Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein boost and heartier texture.
  • Mix in other vegetables like diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor complexity.
• Potluck and Holiday Favorite:
  • Perfect for bringing to potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family reunions as it travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Easy to double or triple the recipe for larger groups.
• Make-Ahead Meal Component:
  • Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving for convenient meal planning.
  • Great for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
• Garnishes to Enhance Serving:
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, sprinkled over the top for freshness and visual appeal.
  • Extra shredded cheddar cheese for an even cheesier presentation.
  • A sprinkle of paprika for color and a subtle smoky flavor.
  • Hot sauce or a drizzle of ranch dressing on the side for those who like extra flavor.

Additional Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Elevate your Creamy Broccoli Casserole with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Whether you steam, boil, or microwave, aim for tender-crisp broccoli. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy in the casserole. It should have a slight bite to it before baking.
2. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully and provides a better flavor and texture.
3. Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses can add different flavor profiles. Pepper Jack can add a spicy kick.
4. Upgrade Your Topping: Get creative with your topping!
   • Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers are a popular and delicious alternative to bread crumbs for a buttery and salty topping.
   • Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs provide an extra crispy and crunchy texture.
   • Fried Onions: Sprinkle French fried onions on top for a classic casserole crunch and flavor.
   • Garlic Bread Crumbs: Mix bread crumbs with melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful garlic bread crumb topping.
5. Add Extra Flavor Boosters: Enhance the flavor of your casserole by adding:
   • A splash of lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
   • A dash of Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami.
   • Hot sauce or red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick.
   • Fresh herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or chives can add fresh, aromatic notes.
6. Make it Healthier (or Healthier-ish): Reduce calories and fat by:
   • Using reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and mayonnaise.
   • Increasing the amount of broccoli and slightly reducing the sauce.
   • Adding cauliflower florets along with broccoli to increase vegetable content.
   • Topping with whole wheat bread crumbs instead of Ritz crackers.
7. Prevent a Soggy Casserole: Ensure your broccoli is well-drained after cooking. Excess moisture can lead to a watery casserole. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before using.
8. Make it Ahead of Time: Assemble the casserole completely, including the topping, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator. This makes it a great dish for meal prepping or holiday gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Broccoli Casserole (FAQ)

Here are some common questions people ask about making Creamy Broccoli Casserole:

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Thaw them completely and drain them very well, squeezing out any excess water before adding them to the casserole. Frozen broccoli tends to be a bit more watery than fresh, so removing excess moisture is crucial to prevent a soggy casserole.

Q2: Can I make Creamy Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, including the topping, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s still cold.

Q3: Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked Creamy Broccoli Casserole. Allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. The texture might be slightly softer after freezing and thawing. It’s generally recommended to freeze after baking rather than unbaked.

Q4: I don’t have cream of mushroom soup. What can I substitute?
A: You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or even cream of cheddar cheese soup. For a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce (béchamel) and add sautéed mushrooms to it.

Q5: Can I make this casserole without mayonnaise?
A: Mayonnaise contributes to the creamy texture and tanginess. If you want to avoid mayonnaise, you can try substituting with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor, or use extra cream cheese or softened cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Q6: What can I use instead of bread crumbs for the topping?
A: Besides crushed Ritz crackers, you can use:
* Panko bread crumbs for extra crispness.
* French fried onions for a classic casserole topping.
* Crushed potato chips for a salty and crunchy topping.
* Grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy crust.

Q7: How do I prevent the casserole from being too bland?
A: Make sure to season adequately with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasoning as you go. Sautéing the onion and using garlic powder adds depth of flavor. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Using sharp cheddar cheese will also enhance the cheesy flavor.

Q8: Can I add meat to this Creamy Broccoli Casserole?
A: Yes, you can easily add cooked meat to make it a heartier dish. Cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cooked chicken, ham, or even ground beef or sausage would be delicious additions. Simply stir the cooked meat into the broccoli mixture before transferring it to the baking dish. This transforms it into a more complete meal.

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