Broccoli and Cheese Casserole: A Comforting Classic

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a dish that effortlessly pleases the crowd, making it an ideal choice for your next family gathering or holiday feast. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving menu or simply craving a creamy side dish throughout the week, this recipe is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. The combination of tender broccoli and gooey, melted cheese is hard to resist. Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers flexibility with ingredients, allowing room for personal touches and preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies onto the plate of even the pickiest eaters!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Steaming basket
• Medium mixing bowl
• 8×8-inch square baking dish
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 (10 ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise or Miracle Whip (we prefer mayo). You can also substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (1/2 stick)
• 2 large eggs, slightly beaten
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Place the broccoli in a steaming basket over boiling water and steam for about 5 minutes, or until it’s tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove the broccoli from the stove, chop into bite-sized pieces, and place in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
4. Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, melted butter, eggs, onion, salt, and pepper to the broccoli. Mix well to combine.
5. Stir in 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese into the broccoli mixture.
6. Transfer the mixture to an 8×8-inch square baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese and crushed Ritz crackers on top.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is a lovely golden brown.

Tips for Success

To ensure your casserole is a hit, make sure not to over-steam the broccoli. It should be tender but still hold its shape. Also, feel free to adjust the cheese and seasoning to your taste. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you want to switch things up, try adding some cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist. For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 290 | Protein: 11g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fat: 21g | Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers? Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes make excellent alternatives for a crunchy topping.

Conclusion

This Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a delightful dish that promises to become a staple in your home. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results and any creative variations you come up with!