Amazing Broccoli Cheese Casserole: 11 Super Tips

Broccoli cheese casserole has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. It’s that ultimate comfort food that just makes everything feel better, especially on a chilly evening. I vividly recall my mom pulling this bubbling, golden-brown dish out of the oven, the aroma of sharp cheddar and tender broccoli filling the kitchen. It’s truly the best way to enjoy a simple broccoli and cheese bake. If you’ve ever wondered how to make broccoli cheese casserole that’s out-of-this-world delicious, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This dish is more than just a side; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Incredible Taste: Rich, creamy homemade cheese sauce perfectly coats tender-crisp broccoli, creating pure bliss.
• Quick Prep: You can whip up this easy broccoli cheese casserole in under 20 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli, it offers a dose of vitamins and fiber, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, common ingredients, it’s an affordable way to impress your guests or family.
• Family Favorite: This is the ultimate comfort food broccoli cheese casserole that even picky eaters will adore.
• Versatile Side: It pairs beautifully with almost any main course, from grilled chicken to hearty roasts.
• From Scratch Goodness: You control the ingredients, ensuring the freshest, most delicious result possible.

Ingredients for Your Homemade Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward creating a truly delicious broccoli casserole with cheese sauce. The quality of your cheddar really shines through here, so I love using a sharp one for the best flavor. The milk and cream create that luscious base for our sauce, while the butter crackers add a delightful crunch on top.

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped – I like them bite-sized but not too small.
• 2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing the garlic and starting our sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds a wonderful aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – this thickens our cheese sauce beautifully.
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%) – use what you have, whole milk makes it extra rich.
• 1 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, creamy texture.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – the star of the show for that classic cheesy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – a little warmth to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) – it’s my secret for a little tang that cuts through the cheese.
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) – these make the perfect crunchy topping.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping) – tossed with the crackers for a golden crust.

How to Make the Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This recipe for a cheesy broccoli casserole recipe is surprisingly straightforward, making it perfect for any night of the week. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a bubbling, delicious dish in no time!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick.
2. Step 2: Get your broccoli ready. Steam or blanch the fresh broccoli florets for just 3-4 minutes until they turn a vibrant green and are slightly tender-crisp. You don’t want them mushy! Drain them well and set them aside.
3. Step 3: Start on that glorious cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma – be careful not to burn it!
4. Step 4: Whisk in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. This step, called making a roux, is key to thickening your sauce.
5. Step 5: Gradually whisk in the 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Keep stirring constantly over medium heat. You’ll notice it start to thicken up nicely after about 3-5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
6. Step 6: Now for the best part! Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the optional Dijon mustard. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious. This is the heart of your simple broccoli cheese bake.
7. Step 7: Gently add the cooked broccoli florets to the cheese sauce. Toss everything together carefully to ensure every piece of broccoli is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness.
8. Step 8: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. Step 9: For that irresistible crunchy topping, combine the 1 cup of crushed butter crackers with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a small bowl. Mix well, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
10. Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the casserole to be bubbly around the edges and the topping to be a beautiful golden brown.
11. Step 11: Once out of the oven, let your masterpiece rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your amazing homemade broccoli cheese bake!

Pro Tips for Your Broccoli Cheddar Casserole

Want to elevate your broccoli cheese casserole from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will help ensure your dish is a showstopper every single time you make it.

• Use good quality, sharp cheddar cheese and shred it yourself from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth.
• Don’t overcook your broccoli before adding it to the sauce. It will continue to cook in the oven, and you want it tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning (salt and pepper) of your cheese sauce before adding the broccoli. It’s harder to get it right once everything is combined.
• For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. It complements the cheddar beautifully.

What’s the secret to a perfectly creamy broccoli cheese bake?

The secret to a truly luscious and creamy broccoli cheese bake lies in the roux and the dairy. Using both milk and heavy cream creates a richer sauce, and making sure your roux is cooked properly prevents a floury taste and ensures a velvety smooth texture. For more information on thickening sauces, you can check out Food Network’s guide on making a roux.

Can I make this broccoli cheese casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This homemade broccoli cheese casserole is fantastic for meal prepping. Assemble the entire dish, including the topping, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. You can learn more about meal prepping from resources like Healthline.

How do I avoid common mistakes with broccoli cheese casserole?

The most common pitfall is watery broccoli. Make sure to drain it extremely well after steaming or blanching. Another mistake is burning the topping; keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking and loosely tent with foil if it’s browning too quickly. For more tips on preventing common cooking errors, you might find Simply Recipes’ list of common cooking mistakes helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Your Broccoli Cheese Casserole Side Dish

This delightful broccoli cheese casserole side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many meals. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a Sunday roast or a weeknight chicken dinner. Imagine serving this alongside a juicy, pan-seared steak – the rich cheese sauce and tender broccoli are a match made in heaven! It also makes a fantastic vegetarian main course when paired with a hearty grain like quinoa or served with a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter meal. The creamy, cheesy goodness makes any meal feel a little more special.

Nutrition Facts for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This rich and creamy broccoli cheese casserole is a satisfying side dish. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of milk and crackers. For more detailed nutritional information, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat This Broccoli Cheese Bake

Leftovers of this delicious broccoli and cheese bake are a welcome sight! Once your casserole has cooled down completely, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. This is crucial for maintaining freshness. You can store your leftover broccoli cheese casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re interested in food storage guidelines, check out the FoodSafety.gov charts.

If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option. Ensure the casserole is well-covered in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly. It should last beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place a serving in the microwave and heat until warmed through, or bake individual portions in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Casserole

What exactly is broccoli cheese casserole?

At its heart, what is broccoli cheese casserole? It’s a warm, comforting baked dish featuring tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, often topped with a crunchy element like breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. It’s a classic American comfort food, perfect as a side dish or even a light main course. If you’re interested in the history of comfort foods, you can explore resources like our about page which touches on family recipes.

Is this a vegetarian broccoli cheese casserole?

Yes, this recipe is inherently a vegetarian broccoli cheese casserole! It’s made with wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli, milk, cream, and cheese, with no meat products involved. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for delicious meat-free meals or side dishes that everyone can enjoy. For more vegetarian recipe ideas, you can visit our latest recipes section.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

You certainly can! If you’re short on time or fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen florets work well. Just make sure to thaw them completely and, most importantly, drain them thoroughly to remove as much excess water as possible. Squeezing out the extra moisture will prevent your casserole from becoming watery and help maintain that perfect creamy texture.

What can I serve with this broccoli cheese bake?

This versatile broccoli cheese bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It’s a classic accompaniment to roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak. For a lighter meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or a hearty soup. It truly complements almost any dinner! You can find more serving suggestions on our homepage.

Variations of Broccoli Cheese Casserole You Can Try

While this classic recipe is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can easily adapt this broccoli cheddar casserole to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter take, try a broccoli cheese casserole no breadcrumbs by simply omitting the cracker topping or using a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch instead.

Looking for a quicker version? Consider using pre-steamed broccoli florets, though be sure to drain them very well. You could also experiment with different cheeses – a blend of Gruyere and cheddar, or even a touch of Monterey Jack, adds delightful depth. For an extra hearty meal, stir in some cooked chicken or diced ham to transform this side dish into a complete dinner. If you have questions about our recipes or website, feel free to check our contact page.

Amazing Broccoli Cheese Casserole: 11 Super Tips

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe makes a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish. It features tender broccoli and a homemade cheddar cheese sauce, topped with buttery crackers. It’s a classic from-scratch recipe, perfect for holidays, family dinners, or potlucks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
6. Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using) until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
9. In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
11. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute frozen broccoli (thawed and drained) if fresh isn’t available.
• For extra protein, add cooked chicken or diced ham to the cheese mixture before baking.
• Assemble the casserole without the topping, refrigerate overnight, then top and bake when ready.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: N/A
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: N/A

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