If you are craving a delicious, comforting side dish that will wow everyone at the dinner table, this Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together tender broccoli with a luscious, velvety sauce made from creamy soup, sour cream, and a generous blend of cheeses. The crispy, buttery cracker topping adds a satisfyingly crunchy contrast, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a holiday feast, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the fresh or thawed broccoli that adds freshness and vibrant color, to the rich cheeses that deliver satisfying creaminess and depth. The pantry staples like garlic and onion powder quietly boost the flavor, while the buttery cracker topping gives it that irresistible crunch.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained): Choose fresh for the best texture or thawed frozen for convenience.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using fresh broccoli): Helps gently soften the broccoli when steaming or sautéing.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup): Creates the creamy base that brings everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Provides cheesy flavor and melty texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp, nutty punch to the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk: Thins the sauce just enough for a smooth consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances and brightens the flavors.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz): Essential for that golden, crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping): Binds the cracker crumbs and adds richness.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
If you’re working with fresh broccoli, start by steaming or blanching the florets just until they turn tender but stay vibrantly green—about 5 to 6 minutes. This quick cooking keeps them crisp-tender, which provides a fantastic texture contrast. For frozen broccoli, make sure to fully thaw and drain it so the casserole won’t turn watery. This step sets a great foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything until the sauce feels silky and well blended. Then fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, which enriches the sauce with a smooth, cheesy undertone that makes the casserole so irresistible.
Step 3: Combine with Broccoli
Gently toss the cooked broccoli into your creamy sauce until every floret is beautifully coated. This ensures you get a perfect balance of sauce to broccoli in every bite. Then season the mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors and bring the casserole to life.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your broccoli mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Taking a moment to spread it out ensures it bakes consistently for that beautiful, even texture we all love in a casserole.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
Combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter in a small bowl, mixing until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this crumbly, buttery topping generously over the broccoli mixture. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the cracker topping for an extra cheesy, golden finish that will make your casserole irresistible.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the casserole into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges bubble invitingly. This baking step melds all the flavors and textures into one harmonious dish.
Step 7: Serve
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven to set slightly—that way, it holds together better when you scoop it. Then dig in and savor the creamy, cheesy, crunchy goodness all in one dish.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or chives, brings a pop of color and a fresh brightness that beautifully contrasts the rich creaminess of the casserole. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top can also add a slightly salty finish to elevate each serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with hearty mains such as roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak. It also complements lighter entrees like garlic butter fish or lemon herb shrimp, balancing the meal with its creamy texture and veggie goodness. For a full spread, toss a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for elegant, personalized portions – perfect for dinner parties or holiday dinners. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass baking dish to show off the creamy broccoli and the golden topping, adding visual appeal that invites your guests to dig right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring midway to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom?
Absolutely! Using cream of chicken soup adds a milder flavor and is a great alternative if you prefer a non-vegetarian option in your Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the buttery crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Just be sure to check that your soup and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms to add variety and extra nutrients—just steam them along with your broccoli before combining with the sauce.
How can I make this casserole less rich?
To lighten it up, try using reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and swap whole milk for a lower-fat version. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly without sacrificing too much flavor.
What is the best way to get the topping extra crispy?
Using melted butter to coat the cracker crumbs helps achieve that perfect golden crunch. For an even crispier top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its creamy sauce, tender broccoli, and irresistible crispy topping combine to create a dish that’s both simple and special. You really can’t go wrong by adding this gem to your recipe collection—go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this cozy, delicious casserole soon!
Print
Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and cheesy side dish perfect for any meal. Featuring tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery cracker crust that bakes to golden perfection. Ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this casserole is simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Broccoli
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using fresh broccoli)
Creamy Sauce
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup for non-vegetarian)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until tender but still bright green, about 5-6 minutes. Drain well and set aside. For frozen broccoli, thaw completely and drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until smooth. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup) and mix until evenly incorporated.
- Combine with Broccoli: Add the cooked broccoli into the creamy sauce mixture and gently stir to coat all florets evenly. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Transfer the broccoli and sauce mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to form a smooth layer.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this cracker topping evenly over the broccoli mixture. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to add extra cheesy flavor.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole!
Notes
- For a non-vegetarian option, substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup.
- Fresh broccoli provides the best texture but frozen can be used as a convenient alternative.
- Ensure broccoli is well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- Crushed buttery crackers like Ritz add a deliciously crispy topping but panko or breadcrumbs can be substituted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
