Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Highlighted under: Warm Meal Recipes
This Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender broccoli florets with rich, creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumbs on top. Perfect as a side or a main course, this comforting casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate way to elevate your dinner table and sneak some veggies into your meal!
This casserole is a family favorite, filled with flavor and comfort. Each bite offers a delightful combination of creamy cheese and tender broccoli, making it irresistible!
A Comforting Classic
Casseroles have long been a comfort food staple, providing warmth, satisfaction, and a sense of home. This Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole epitomizes that tradition by incorporating nutritious broccoli with rich cheeses and creamy sauce. Not only does it make for a fulfilling meal, but it also brings comfort to the dinner table, reminding us of family gatherings and shared moments.
In addition to being delicious, this casserole is a celebration of versatility. It can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs or personal tastes. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or spices, making it a signature dish your family will request time and time again.
Healthy Ingredients You Can Trust
When creating a delicious meal, the quality of your ingredients matters. The Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is made with fresh broccoli florets, offering essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. Pairing this vegetable with a creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup ensures a flavor combination that makes eating veggies enjoyable for all, especially for picky eaters.
Additionally, this recipe incorporates both cheddar and parmesan cheeses, providing a rich depth of flavor without excessive guilt. Using whole ingredients means you can enjoy this dish while still feeling good about what you're putting into your body. With easy-to-find components, this casserole can be a staple in any home kitchen.
Perfect for Meal Prep
The beauty of casseroles lies in their convenience, making them an ideal choice for meal prep. This Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days before you need to serve it or freeze it for longer-lasting enjoyment. Simply reheat in the oven to restore that deliciously crisp topping.
By incorporating this casserole into your meal prep routine, you can ensure you have a delicious, home-cooked option ready for busy weeknights. Pair it with a protein, and you have a complete meal that is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your casserole:
Prepare the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Mix the Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well coated.
Combine and Layer
Add the steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake the Casserole
Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious casserole!
Tips for the Best Casserole
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly, consider blanching the broccoli before incorporating it into the mixture. This helps retain its vibrant green color and crunch, ultimately enhancing the overall texture of the dish. Additionally, using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties will result in a creamier cheese sauce that melts beautifully.
Another tip is to customize the breadcrumb topping. You can use Panko breadcrumbs for added crunch or even mix in herbs and spices to elevate the flavor. A sprinkle of paprika or Italian seasoning can add an exciting twist to your casserole's topping, making it even more enticing.
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole makes a fantastic side dish for roasted meats or grilled chicken. Pair it with a simple salad to balance the richness of the cheese and make mealtime feel complete. The contrast in flavors will elevate your meal and impress your guests.
For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a quinoa salad or wild rice to create a hearty, plant-based dining experience. Experimenting with different side dishes can add variety to your meals, ensuring you'll never tire of this wonderful casserole.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, don't worry! This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, to preserve its crispy topping.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, you’ll have a versatile meal ready to go whenever you need a comforting, cheesy dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand.
Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
This Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender broccoli florets with rich, creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumbs on top. Perfect as a side or a main course, this comforting casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate way to elevate your dinner table and sneak some veggies into your meal!
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Warm Meal Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well coated.
Add the steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350