Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: A Comforting, Creamy Side Dish for Any Meal

Looking for a comforting side dish that everyone will love? Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a classic, creamy, and cheesy dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner, a weeknight meal, or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender broccoli, rich cheese, and a creamy sauce creates a flavorful, satisfying side that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.

The beauty of Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is how versatile it is. You can use different types of cheese, add a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs, or even toss in other vegetables to mix things up. It’s a great way to get more veggies into your meal while still enjoying that irresistible cheesy goodness.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Cheesy Broccoli Casserole, share tips for getting the perfect texture, and suggest variations to make this dish your own. Ready to bake up a comforting, cheesy masterpiece? Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or about 2 heads of broccoli)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken for a different flavor)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for crunch)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Broccoli:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain the broccoli and transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process, or run cold water over the broccoli to cool it down quickly. Drain again and set aside.

3. Make the Cheesy Sauce:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Combine the Broccoli and Cheese Sauce:

• Add the blanched broccoli to the cheesy sauce and gently stir until the broccoli is well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

5. Prepare the Topping:

• In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. If you like, you can also add Parmesan cheese to the topping for added flavor. Stir to combine.

6. Top the Casserole:

• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the broccoli and cheese mixture in the baking dish. The breadcrumbs will give it a crunchy, golden topping.

7. Bake the Casserole:

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. If you want a crunchier topping, you can place the casserole under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.

8. Serve:

• Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It makes the perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main course. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Broccoli Casserole:

1. Use Fresh Broccoli:

• For the best texture and flavor, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Blanching the broccoli in boiling water before baking helps to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

2. Experiment with Different Cheeses:

• Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

3. Make It Ahead of Time:

• This casserole can be assembled ahead of time. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

4. Add Protein:

• To turn this casserole into a main dish, you can add cooked chicken, ham, or even bacon bits to the cheesy broccoli mixture before baking.

5. Make It Gluten-Free:

• If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. There are also gluten-free cream of mushroom soups available, or you can use a homemade substitute.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

• Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the casserole. Frozen broccoli tends to release more moisture than fresh broccoli, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

• Yes! To make this casserole dairy-free, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives and use dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise. Ensure the cream of mushroom soup is also dairy-free.

3. How do I store leftovers?

• Leftover cheesy broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze cheesy broccoli casserole?

• Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through.

5. Can I make this casserole without breadcrumbs?

• Yes, if you prefer a softer topping, you can skip the breadcrumbs and simply top the casserole with more shredded cheese. You could also use crushed crackers or nuts for a different texture.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

• Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even corn to the casserole for extra flavor and variety. Just make sure to blanch them like the broccoli before mixing them in.

7. How can I make this casserole spicier?

• To make this casserole spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce. It will add a nice heat to the creamy dish.

8. Can I make this casserole in a smaller pan?

• Yes, if you have a smaller pan, you can reduce the ingredient quantities accordingly. Just make sure the casserole isn’t too crowded in the pan so it can cook evenly.

9. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

• Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker! Assemble the casserole as directed and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until it’s bubbly and the top is slightly golden. For a crisp topping, you may want to add breadcrumbs and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

10. How do I reheat frozen cheesy broccoli casserole?

• To reheat frozen casserole, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the casserole and your oven, until it’s heated through and bubbly.