Broccoli casserole is a dish that dances on your taste buds, combining tender broccoli with creamy cheese and crunchy toppings. The aroma wafts through the house, promising comfort and warmth with every bite.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic embrace of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaits the first scoop. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday dinner, the anticipation of cheesy goodness brings everyone to the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful broccoli casserole offers incredible flavor while being super easy to prepare
- You can adapt it based on what you have at home
- Its vibrant green color makes it visually appealing, perfect for any occasion
- Not only is it great as a side dish, but it’s also versatile enough to serve as a main course on meatless nights
I vividly remember the first time I made this casserole; my family devoured it so fast that I barely got a spoonful myself.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and texture; they should feel firm when squeezed.
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Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for aged cheddar for a deeper, more robust flavor that melts beautifully.
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Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and enhances the overall flavor profile; choose low-fat if you prefer healthier options.
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Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor; they create a deliciously crunchy topping.
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Milk: Whole milk gives richness; however, you can use any milk based on your preference.
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Onion: Finely diced onions add sweetness and depth; sauté them until they’re translucent for better flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re all roughly the same size for even cooking.
Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add the diced onions. Sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Mix It All Up: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onions with broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour this glorious mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite has that cheesy goodness.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs. Drizzle with melted butter to help them crisp up nicely as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection: Place your casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. The aromas will have your mouth watering in no time!
Enjoy this delightful broccoli casserole as a comforting side dish or even as a main course!
You Must Know
- This delicious broccoli casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal
- It combines creamy textures with crunchy toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser
- Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters without them even noticing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal results, pre-cook your broccoli for a few minutes before mixing it into the casserole. This ensures it remains vibrant and tender throughout the baking process.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or add cooked chicken for extra protein. Experimenting with spices like garlic powder or onion flakes can elevate the flavor profile too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover broccoli casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfect broccoli casserole, ensure your cheese is shredded fresh, as pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents
- Baking uncovered allows for that golden crust; cover if you prefer softer results
- Always taste before seasoning; flavors develop during baking!
It was one of those rainy Sundays when I decided to make this broccoli casserole. My friends were over, and they devoured every last bite, asking for seconds and thirds—definitely a win!
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for my casserole?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture.
How long do I bake broccoli casserole?
Bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Try adding crumbled bacon or sautéed onions for an extra depth of flavor in your casserole.
Broccoli Casserole
Broccoli casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender broccoli, creamy cheddar cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make casserole is not only visually appealing but also a great way to enjoy vegetables, making it a hit at family gatherings or cozy dinners. With just the right balance of flavors and textures, this recipe will quickly become a favorite among kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- 2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- 3. In a large bowl, mix sautéed onions with broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
- 4. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- 5. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs; drizzle with melted butter.
- 6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
