Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This keto-friendly broccoli cheese casserole is easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. It uses wholesome, low-carb ingredients and skips the processed soups often found in traditional versions. Whether you’re serving it alongside roast chicken or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh or frozen broccoli florets
butter
cream cheese
heavy cream
shredded cheddar cheese
Parmesan cheese (grated)
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
black pepper
optional topping: crushed pork rinds or almond flour for crunch
optional: cooked bacon or chopped chicken for added protein

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish and set aside.
  2. Steam or boil broccoli florets until just tender (about 4–5 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
  4. Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add in half of the cheddar cheese and all the Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli and cheese sauce. Mix to coat evenly.
  7. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and optional topping (crushed pork rinds or almond flour).
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or crumbled bacon for a full meal.
  • Extra Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
  • Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
  • Low-FODMAP Option: Use garlic-infused oil instead of garlic powder and skip onions.
  • Vegetable Mix: Combine broccoli with cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini.
  • Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
  • Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter, cream, and cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
To freeze, cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, there are no flour-based thickeners in this recipe. It’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar offers bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

Can I make it without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with extra heavy cream and a little more shredded cheese for thickness.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it perfect for a keto lifestyle.

Can I add eggs to firm it up?

Yes, adding one beaten egg to the sauce helps it set firmer when baked.

How do I make it more crispy on top?

Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese and broil for the last few minutes.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or as a side for holiday meals.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Thaw and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping meals for the week, or bringing a side to a holiday dinner, this low-carb classic is sure to impress. It’s rich, flavorful, and so good—you won’t miss the carbs at all.

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Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, low-carb side dish featuring tender broccoli in a rich cheese sauce, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a satisfying and wholesome option for keto and gluten-free diets, ideal for weeknights, holidays, or meal prep.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional topping: 1/4 cup crushed pork rinds or almond flour
  • Optional mix-ins: cooked bacon or shredded chicken

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.
  2. Steam or boil broccoli for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in cream cheese until smooth.
  4. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Stir in half the cheddar and all the Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  6. In a large bowl, combine broccoli and cheese sauce. Mix to coat evenly.
  7. Transfer to the casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar and optional topping.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Broil for 1–2 minutes if desired.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Drain broccoli well to prevent a watery casserole.
  • Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, or freshly grate for best melt.
  • Add cooked chicken or bacon to turn it into a complete meal.
  • Great for make-ahead and freezer-friendly meal prep.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: undefined
  • Sodium: undefined
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: undefined
  • Trans Fat: undefined
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: undefined
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