Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is easy to prepare, uses simple pantry staples, and pairs well with almost any main course. The creamy cheese sauce makes broccoli irresistible, even for picky eaters, while the crunchy topping adds the perfect contrast in texture. It’s also an excellent make-ahead dish that reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

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

Broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
Cream of mushroom soup
Sour cream
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Cream cheese, softened
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Butter, melted
Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Steam or blanch the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, half of the cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Fold the broccoli into the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add cooked chicken for a complete one-dish meal.
Stir in cooked rice to make the casserole even heartier.
Mix in cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Replace cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Colby Jack, or Swiss cheese.
Add sautéed mushrooms or diced onions for extra depth of flavor.
Top with crispy fried onions instead of crackers for additional crunch.
Use cauliflower along with the broccoli for a mixed vegetable casserole.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through or microwave individual servings for convenience. If the topping softens during storage, reheating in the oven helps restore some crispness. Freeze the casserole before or after baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Thaw and drain frozen broccoli well before using to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, but Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Swiss, Colby Jack, or mozzarella are all excellent options.

Can I add protein?

Yes. Cooked chicken, turkey, ham, or bacon all pair wonderfully with the cheesy broccoli.

How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery?

Drain the broccoli thoroughly after steaming and avoid overcooking it before baking.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheese Casserole?

Yes. It freezes well for up to 3 months.

Can I use homemade cheese sauce instead of condensed soup?

Yes. A homemade cheese sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese is a delicious substitute.

What main dishes pair well with this casserole?

It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, baked ham, grilled steak, pork chops, meatloaf, or turkey.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free condensed soup and gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

Can I make this casserole without the crunchy topping?

Yes. The casserole is still delicious without the topping if you prefer a smoother, creamier finish.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a timeless comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or a comforting addition to a weeknight dinner, this easy casserole is always a crowd favorite. With its rich flavor, simple preparation, and versatile ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food made with tender broccoli, a rich cheese sauce, and a buttery golden topping. This classic side dish is perfect for holidays, family dinners, potlucks, or any meal that calls for a comforting favorite.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Steam or blanch the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender, then drain thoroughly.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, half of the cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Fold the broccoli into the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
Mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Thaw and drain frozen broccoli well before using to avoid excess moisture.
Add cooked chicken, ham, turkey, or bacon to turn this into a complete meal.
Substitute Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Swiss, or Colby Jack cheese for a different flavor.
Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 290 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 610 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 11 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg