Broccoli Cheese Casserole – Quick, Easy & Delicious

What transforms simple steamed broccoli into comforting side dish that wins over vegetable skeptics while delivering creamy, cheesy satisfaction without requiring culinary expertise or hours in the kitchen? The answer lies in combining tender florets with rich cheese sauce and crispy topping that creates irresistible texture contrast. This broccoli cheese casserole proves that healthy vegetables become family favorites when prepared with indulgent ingredients. The vegetarian main dish recipe delivers perfect balance where nutritious greens meet savory cheese, allowing both components to shine in every bite.

Ingredients List

For this broccoli cheese casserole you’ll need fresh broccoli, quality cheeses, creamy base, and crunchy topping that creates satisfying comfort food everyone loves.

For the Casserole:

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 pounds)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Timing

This broccoli cheese casserole requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets and blanch in boiling salted water for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture that could make the broccoli cheese casserole watery.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Combine condensed soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until mixture becomes smooth and creamy with well-distributed cheese throughout.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add blanched broccoli to cheese mixture and fold gently until florets coat evenly with sauce. Avoid over-mixing which can break down broccoli and create mushy texture in the finished broccoli cheese casserole.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread broccoli mixture evenly in prepared dish, smoothing top with spatula for uniform layer that bakes consistently throughout.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

Mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and garlic powder in small bowl until crumbs absorb butter and become evenly coated. This creates golden, crispy topping for the broccoli cheese casserole.

Step 6: Add Topping Layer

Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over broccoli mixture, covering entire surface for maximum crunch. Press down gently to help topping adhere during baking without compacting casserole underneath.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until topping turns golden brown and cheese sauce bubbles around edges. Internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety and optimal texture in the broccoli cheese casserole.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. This allows sauce to thicken slightly and makes portioning easier while preventing burns from piping hot cheese.

Nutritional Information

For a serving of this broccoli cheese casserole, you’ll receive vegetable-forward dish that provides vitamins and minerals alongside satisfying comfort food appeal:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary fiber: 3g
• Total fat: 23g
• Saturated fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Protein: 14g
• Vitamin C: 90% daily value
• Vitamin A: 25% daily value
• Calcium: 35% daily value
• Iron: 8% daily value

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform your broccoli cheese casserole into a healthier version with these modifications that reduce calories while maintaining creamy, comforting texture:

• Greek yogurt swap: Replace sour cream and mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for protein boost and lower fat content
• Reduced cheese: Use half the cheese amount and add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor without extra calories
• Whole grain topping: Substitute panko with whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers for added fiber
• Cauliflower addition: Mix equal parts broccoli and cauliflower to increase vegetable content and reduce calorie density
• Low-fat soup: Use reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup or make homemade version with skim milk
• Olive oil drizzle: Replace butter in topping with olive oil spray for heart-healthy fats
• Fresh herbs: Add fresh parsley, dill, or chives to boost flavor without sodium or fat additions

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your broccoli cheese casserole experience with these ideas that transform simple side dish into versatile meal component:

• Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham for complete dinner
• Pair with crusty bread and green salad for satisfying vegetarian lunch option
• Top with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for added flavor and texture
• Serve in individual ramekins for elegant presentation at dinner parties
• Add to holiday buffet table next to traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas dishes
• Pack as make-ahead potluck contribution that travels well and reheats beautifully
• Stuff into baked potatoes or use as filling for savory crepes for creative variations
• Present family-style in decorative casserole dish with serving spoon for casual gatherings

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Master this broccoli cheese casserole by avoiding these pitfalls that compromise texture and overall quality of finished dish:

• Overcooking the broccoli: Boiling too long before baking creates mushy vegetables instead of tender-crisp texture
• Skipping the draining step: Excess water on broccoli dilutes cheese sauce and creates watery casserole
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-packaged cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting in sauce
• Topping too early: Adding breadcrumbs before mixing casserole allows them to absorb moisture and lose crispness
• Wrong baking temperature: Temperature above 375°F burns topping before casserole heats through completely
• Crowded baking dish: Using too-small dish creates thick layer that doesn’t heat evenly throughout
• Forgetting to grease pan: Cheese sticks to ungreased dish making serving difficult and cleanup frustrating

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Preserve the freshness of your broccoli cheese casserole with these strategies that maintain quality and allow convenient meal planning:

• Refrigerator storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days
• Freezer preparation: Assemble casserole without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating method: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until heated through, removing foil last 5 minutes
• Individual portions: Divide into single servings before storing for quick grab-and-go lunches
• Topping separation: Store unbaked casserole and topping separately to maintain crispness when reheating
• Make-ahead timing: Prepare broccoli cheese casserole up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerating until baking time
• Microwave option: Reheat individual portions in microwave for 2-3 minutes, though topping won’t stay crispy

Conclusion

This broccoli cheese casserole combines nutritious vegetables with creamy cheese sauce, creating comfort food through simple preparation and reliable baking method. The recipe proves that healthy eating becomes effortless when vegetables transform into dishes families request regularly.

Ready to make vegetables the star of dinner? Try this broccoli cheese casserole today and share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your favorite additions or how this became your go-to side dish!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli thoroughly before mixing with cheese sauce, though fresh broccoli provides better texture and flavor in the finished casserole.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? Make homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, or use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or condensed cheddar cheese soup.

How do I prevent watery casserole? Ensure broccoli drains completely after blanching and pat dry with paper towels to remove all excess moisture before combining with sauce.

Can I make this broccoli cheese casserole ahead? Yes, assemble completely up to 24 hours before baking, covering tightly and refrigerating, then baking directly from refrigerator with added 10 minutes cooking time.

What other vegetables work in this recipe? Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or mixed vegetables all work well, maintaining same proportions and preparation methods for consistent results.

Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for topping.

Why is my topping soggy? Topping absorbs moisture if added too early or if casserole contains excess water, so always drain broccoli well and add topping just before baking.

Can I add protein to make this a main dish? Yes, fold in cooked chicken, ham, or turkey to transform side dish into complete one-dish meal that serves 6-8 people.

How do I reheat without drying it out? Cover with foil while reheating to trap moisture, adding splash of milk if sauce seems thick after refrigeration.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd? Yes, double all ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans or one large roasting pan, keeping baking time approximately the same while checking doneness.