Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer.
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings families together. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy cheese sauce that coats each broccoli floret
- Crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A Comforting Classic
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a beloved dish that has been gracing dinner tables for generations. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a staple side dish for family gatherings, holidays, and potlucks. The combination of tender broccoli and rich cheese sauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters in your family.
The casserole's simplicity is one of its greatest charms. It requires minimal preparation and can be made in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Just prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve. This versatility makes it a go-to recipe for many home cooks.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of Broccoli Cheese Casserole is its adaptability. This dish lends itself well to meal prep, allowing you to create multiple servings that can be easily reheated throughout the week. It stores well in the refrigerator for several days and can even be frozen for longer periods, making it a convenient option for busy lifestyles.
To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven. You can also get creative by adding different vegetables or proteins to the mix, transforming this classic dish into something new each time you make it.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It complements roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish, adding a creamy, comforting element to your meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty salad or stuffed peppers for a filling and satisfying dinner.
For a fun twist, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins as a delightful side dish for a dinner party. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of additional cheese before serving to impress your guests with both presentation and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients well before baking.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Broccoli
In a large pot, steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Add the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storing Leftovers
Storing leftovers from your Broccoli Cheese Casserole is easy and straightforward. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal planning.
If you want to extend its life, consider freezing it. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize your Broccoli Cheese Casserole to suit your taste preferences. You can easily swap out the cheddar cheese for other varieties such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Additionally, adding cooked chicken or sausage can transform this side dish into a hearty main course.
For a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and low-fat cheese options. You can also incorporate other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for added flavor and nutrition, ensuring that every bite is both delicious and wholesome.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and adds extra creaminess.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g