There’s something magical about a warm casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling your kitchen with an aroma that makes it feel like a big, friendly hug. Now, imagine that comforting scent mixed with the earthy crunch of broccoli, creamy cheese, and just a hint of garlic. Yes, my friends, I’m talking about Broccoli Casserole! This dish is not just a side; it’s an experience—one that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance and your family asking for seconds (or thirds!). For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Growing up, casseroles were a staple in our home. They were the ultimate crowd-pleasers at family gatherings and potlucks. I can vividly remember my aunt’s Broccoli Casserole making its grand entrance at every holiday meal, bringing joy and smiles all around. It was the one dish that could turn broccoli from “that green stuff” into “OMG, can I have more?” Perfect for holidays or cozy weeknight dinners, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious.
Why You'll Love This Broccoli Casserole
- This amazing Broccoli Casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Broccoli Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Broccoli Casserole:
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use bright green florets for optimal flavor and nutrition; they’re the star of this dish!
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds rich flavor; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This serves as the creamy base; opt for low-fat if you want to lighten things up.
- Onion: Diced onions provide depth of flavor; sauté them lightly before adding to enhance their sweetness.
For the Topping:
- Ritz Crackers: Crush these buttery crackers to create a crispy topping that adds texture and crunch.
- Butter: Melted butter helps bind the cracker crumbs together while giving them a rich flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. explore our complete recipe index.
How to Make Broccoli Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Broccoli Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top we all crave.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and sauté diced onions until they are translucent (about 5 minutes). This step brings out their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine blanched broccoli, sautéed onions, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole
Transfer this broccoli goodness into a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot and watch it disappear!
Now you’ve got a scrumptious Broccoli Casserole ready to impress! Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just another Tuesday night dinner, this dish will shine brighter than Aunt Edna’s holiday sweater! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminding yourself that yes, broccoli can be delightful!
You Must Know About Broccoli Casserole
- This amazing Broccoli Casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Broccoli Casserole Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate Broccoli Casserole, start by steaming the broccoli to keep its crunchiness. While that’s happening, mix your cheese sauce and prepare your casserole dish. Finally, combine everything and bake until bubbly perfection is reached.
Add Your Touch to Broccoli Casserole
Feel free to personalize your Broccoli Casserole by swapping out cheddar for mozzarella or adding in cooked chicken or bacon bits! Experiment with different herbs or top with crispy breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating Broccoli Casserole
Store leftover Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it retains its deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Broccoli Casserole
- This amazing Broccoli Casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Sometimes, I whip up this casserole when friends come over, and their faces light up with joy—it’s like I’m serving them a warm hug!
FAQs About Broccoli Casserole
What is Broccoli Casserole?
Broccoli casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender broccoli florets with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping. Often served as a side dish at family gatherings or potlucks, it features ingredients like cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and sometimes even rice or breadcrumbs for added texture. This comforting casserole not only highlights the nutritious benefits of broccoli but also provides a satisfying flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a festive addition to your holiday table, broccoli casserole is sure to impress.
How do you make Broccoli Casserole?
To make broccoli casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Blanch fresh broccoli in boiling water for about three minutes before draining it. In a mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, and any additional seasonings you like. Pour this mixture into a baking dish and top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for crunch. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. This simple method guarantees a delicious result every time.
Can I make Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare broccoli casserole ahead of time! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. Simply assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly since it will be cold when you start cooking. This way, you can enjoy delicious homemade broccoli casserole without any last-minute stress.
Is Broccoli Casserole healthy?
Broccoli casserole can be a healthy option depending on how you prepare it. Broccoli itself is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber and antioxidants. However, traditional recipes might include high-calorie ingredients like cream or excessive cheese. To make your casserole healthier, consider using low-fat cheese options or substituting some of the creamy components with Greek yogurt. autumn spice pear cobbler pumpkin spice cookies recipe This adjustment maintains flavor while reducing calories and fat content. Enjoying broccoli casserole as part of a balanced diet can contribute positively to your health.
Conclusion for Broccoli Casserole
In conclusion, broccoli casserole is a versatile dish that brings together taste and nutrition in one comforting package. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience. By incorporating healthy tweaks into the recipe, you can enjoy this classic without compromising on flavor or health benefits. easy oven-baked frittata recipe Whether you’re serving it at family dinners or special occasions, broccoli casserole is sure to delight everyone at the table. Embrace its deliciousness today!
Broccoli Casserole
Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender broccoli with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping for a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, transforming broccoli into a family favorite. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, you’ll find every bite brings warmth and joy to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 3 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté onions in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of butter until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- In a bowl, combine blanched broccoli, sautéed onions, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese; mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. In another bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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