Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Name: Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting and cheesy dish that brings together tender broccoli and a creamy sauce, perfect for any family meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-29T19:21:55.216Z

This broccoli cheese casserole is a family favorite that combines fresh broccoli with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s perfect as a side dish or a main meal. Enjoy it at gatherings or as a cozy weeknight dinner!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and cheesy flavor that everyone will love
A great way to sneak in some vegetables
Can be prepared ahead of time for convenience

      

A Perfect Side Dish for Any Occasion

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the ultimate side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Whether you're serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty vegetarian meal, this casserole is sure to impress. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday feasts.

This dish not only enhances your meal but also adds a splash of color to your table, thanks to the vibrant green broccoli. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, this cruciferous vegetable supports a healthy immune system and promotes digestion. Incorporating broccoli into your meals is an excellent way to boost your overall health while enjoying a comforting dish.

When combined with cheese and creamy ingredients in this casserole, you can enjoy the health benefits of broccoli without sacrificing taste. It's a wonderful way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters, making it an excellent choice for families with children.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best features of Broccoli Cheese Casserole is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.

Simply follow the recipe steps, then cover the casserole with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and enjoy a warm, cheesy dish without the hassle of prep time. You can also freeze it for later use, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

Main Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to check your pantry for any missing ingredients before you start.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious broccoli cheese casserole.

Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheese Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Combine and Transfer

Add the steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir gently to combine. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, for a complete meal. It also goes well with vegetarian options, like quinoa or lentil dishes, adding a comforting touch to your plate.

For a lighter meal, serve the casserole with a fresh garden salad. The crispness of the salad will balance the richness of the casserole, creating a delightful contrast. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

If you choose to freeze the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or increase the baking time if cooking from frozen.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences. For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon, ham, or sausage. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

For a healthier version, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and low-fat mayonnaise. Additionally, you can replace the breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or seeds for a gluten-free alternative. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while still enjoying its core flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! You can use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses for different flavors.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?

Yes, simply use a vegetarian cream soup and ensure your cheese is rennet-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.