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!