Broccoli Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful way to enjoy broccoli, this Broccoli Casserole is exactly what you need. With a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crispy golden topping, this dish turns a simple vegetable into a mouthwatering side that even picky eaters will love. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, a potluck, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Broccoli casserole is the perfect combination of fresh broccoli, a rich cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping. While traditional versions often rely on condensed soup, this recipe is made from scratch for a fresher, more flavorful dish. The creamy sauce coats each piece of broccoli, and the crispy topping adds the perfect crunch in every bite. Plus, this casserole is easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Casserole

• Packed with Flavor – A rich, creamy cheese sauce makes this dish incredibly satisfying.

• Crowd-Pleaser – Even those who don’t usually love broccoli will devour this cheesy casserole.

• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, potlucks, or an everyday side dish.

• Easy to Customize – Add chicken, mushrooms, or different cheeses for a unique twist.

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and bake when ready for an easy meal.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Yield: Serves 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients for Broccoli Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

• 2 tbsp butter, melted

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter and sauté the chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure to remove any lumps. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Then add 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar and 1/2 cup Parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with the cheese sauce, coating it well. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole, followed by 1/4 cup shredded cheddar for extra cheesiness.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Ingredient Background

Broccoli

Broccoli is the star of this casserole, bringing a hearty texture and fresh flavor while packing in essential nutrients. It’s loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish a great way to enjoy a healthy vegetable in a deliciously cheesy way. Blanching the broccoli before baking helps it stay vibrant and tender while preventing it from becoming overly soft in the oven.

Cheese Blend

The combination of cheddar and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy cheese sauce. Cheddar provides the bold, sharp flavor that pairs beautifully with broccoli, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty depth. Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged cheese ensures a smoother melt and avoids unnecessary additives.

Breadcrumb Topping

A crunchy topping is essential for adding texture to contrast the creamy interior of the casserole. Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with butter and extra cheese create a crispy, golden-brown crust that makes each bite satisfying. If you want an extra crunch, you can use panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs.

Technique Tips for Broccoli Casserole

How to Keep Broccoli Vibrant and Tender

The best way to ensure your broccoli stays bright green and tender (not mushy) is to blanch it before baking. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, cook the broccoli for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer it to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. This helps retain the color and texture.

Making a Smooth Cheese Sauce

A common mistake when making cheese sauce is overheating the dairy, which can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy. To avoid this, use low to medium heat and gradually add the cheese, stirring constantly. Adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard enhances the flavor and helps stabilize the sauce.

Preventing a Soggy Casserole

Since broccoli contains a lot of moisture, draining it thoroughly after blanching is important. Also, avoid covering the casserole with foil while baking, as this can trap steam and make the dish watery instead of crisp and golden.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

For a heartier meal, add cooked shredded or diced chicken to the cheese sauce before mixing in the broccoli. This turns the casserole into a one-pan dinner that’s satisfying and protein-packed.

Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole

For a fun twist, mix in cooked elbow macaroni or rigatoni with the broccoli and cheese sauce to create a cheesy broccoli pasta bake. This version is great for kids and adds extra comfort to the dish.

Spicy Broccoli Casserole

If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. This will bring a slight kick that balances well with the creamy texture.

Freezing and Storing Broccoli Casserole

Storing Leftovers

Let the casserole cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the topping crispy.

Freezing for Later

Broccoli casserole freezes well! To freeze:

1. Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it yet.

2. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

3. Freeze for up to 2 months.

4. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Reheating Without Losing Texture

For the best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) instead of the microwave. This helps maintain the crispy topping. If reheating in the microwave, use medium heat and stir halfway through to keep the consistency smooth.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lightened-Up Version

To make a lighter version, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or reduced-fat milk. This keeps the dish creamy while cutting back on fat and calories.

Low-Carb & Keto Option

Replace the flour-based roux with cream cheese for a keto-friendly sauce. Also, swap breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or parmesan crisps for a crunchy topping without the carbs.

Dairy-Free Alternative

For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk and substitute dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. A mix of cashew cream and dairy-free butter can also create a creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Holiday Feast Side Dish

This broccoli casserole is a fantastic holiday side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, honey-glazed carrots, and mashed potatoes for a well-balanced meal.

Potluck Favorite

For potlucks, bake the casserole in a disposable aluminum tray so it’s easy to transport. Keep it warm by covering it with foil until serving time.

Weeknight Dinner Companion

Pair this casserole with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a juicy steak for a complete meal. A simple side salad and dinner rolls will round out the plate perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

3. What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar is the best choice for flavor, but you can mix in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for extra creaminess.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the roux and swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed almonds.

5. How do I make the casserole extra creamy?

For an even creamier dish, add an extra 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.

6. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can substitute with a pinch of dry mustard powder or simply leave it out if necessary.

7. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken, crumbled turkey sausage, or diced ham make great additions.

8. How do I keep the topping from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake uncovered and use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for extra crispiness.

9. Can I use a different vegetable?

Yes! Try using cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus instead of broccoli.

10. How do I make this dish more flavorful?

Add a little smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for extra depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate cheesy, creamy, and crispy side dish that makes eating vegetables irresistible. Whether you serve it for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or a simple weeknight meal, this dish always delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With easy make-ahead options, customizable variations, and simple storage tips, this recipe is both convenient and delicious.

Give this cheesy broccoli casserole a try, and it just might become a family favorite at your table!

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