Irresistible Broccoli Cheese Casserole: Comfort Food Bliss

Imagine a bubbling, cheesy concoction that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of melted goodness. Broccoli cheese casserole is not just a dish; it’s comfort food at its finest, with layers of vibrant green broccoli enveloped in rich, creamy cheese sauce. The moment you serve it, your family will come running, lured by the scent of nostalgia and home-cooked love.

Now, let me take you back to a chilly winter evening when I first made this delightful casserole. It was one of those nights when everything seemed to be going wrong until I opened the oven door and unveiled that golden-brown topping. My kids’ eyes lit up like Christmas morning as they dove into that cheesy masterpiece. Trust me, you’ll want to recreate that magical moment in your own kitchen!

I remember my sister declaring it her all-time favorite while devouring two servings in one sitting.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and texture; they should feel firm to the touch.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that stands out against the creaminess.

• Heavy Cream: Use full-fat heavy cream to achieve that luxurious, creamy consistency in your sauce.

• Breadcrumbs: You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping that adds texture contrast.

• Butter: Melted butter enhances the richness of the sauce and helps bind the breadcrumbs.

• Onion Powder: This adds a subtle depth of flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.

• Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding aromatic undertones; don’t skip this ingredient!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make broccoli cheese casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray. This will ensure your casserole comes out effortlessly after baking.

Prepare the broccoli by washing and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Steam them lightly until bright green and tender-crisp—this should take about 3-4 minutes.

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, onion powder, garlic powder, and some salt and pepper. Stir until well blended; this creamy mixture is what dreams are made of.

Fold in the steamed broccoli gently until fully coated with that cheesy goodness. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly.

For the final touch, melt butter and combine with breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of your casserole before baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top—trust me on this; it’s hard not to sneak bites while waiting!

Enjoy this broccoli cheese casserole hot from the oven as a main dish or side—your taste buds are in for an unforgettable treat!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients. Blanch the broccoli briefly, then mix it with cheese and other components before baking for that glorious golden top.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out cheddar for Gruyère or adding crispy bacon bits to enhance flavor. You can also toss in some garlic powder or nutmeg for an extra layer of taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in a 350°F oven until warmed through, keeping that cheesy goodness intact.

Sharing this recipe with friends at a gathering turned into a hilarious memory when everyone tried to guess my secret ingredient—turns out it was just love (and a bit too much cheese).

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for broccoli cheese casserole?

Yes, but fresh broccoli offers better texture and flavor.

How can I make my casserole creamier?

Add more cream or sour cream to achieve that creamy consistency.

What can I serve with broccoli cheese casserole?

It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a simple green salad.

Print

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the perfect dish for family dinners or potlucks. With vibrant broccoli enveloped in a creamy cheddar sauce and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, every bite brings a nostalgic taste of home. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this crowd-pleaser is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Gently fold in the steamed broccoli until coated in the cheese mixture. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: For a twist, swap cheddar with Gruyère or add crispy bacon bits. Ensure you use fresh broccoli for optimal texture; frozen may become mushy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat at 350°F until warmed through.