Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. With tender broccoli, a savory mushroom sauce, and a crunchy cheese cracker topping, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 bunches)
• 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
• 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cheese crackers, crushed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and boil for 2 minutes. Drain well to remove excess water.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, eggs, dried minced onion, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
3. Step 3: Pour the mixture over the drained broccoli and toss gently to coat all the florets evenly. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, approximately 2 quarts or 8 inches in size.
4. Step 4: Evenly sprinkle the crushed cheese crackers on top of the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for 40 to 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Add cooked bacon bits for an extra savory punch.
• Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• If homemade cream of mushroom soup is preferred, prepare it ahead for a fresher taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through to retain the crispy topping, or use a microwave for a quicker option though the topping may soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it well before mixing to prevent excess water from making the casserole too soft.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the casserole fully, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Broccoli Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 148 reviews

A creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole combining fresh broccoli florets, a rich mushroom soup and mayonnaise mixture, topped with crunchy cheese crackers, baked to golden perfection. This comforting side dish is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 bunches)

Casserole Mixture

• 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 large eggs
• 2 Tablespoons dried minced onion
• 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese

Topping

• 1 cup cheese crackers, crushed

Instructions

1. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and boil for 2 minutes to slightly soften them. Drain the broccoli well to remove excess water.
2. Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, dried minced onion, and freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Combine Broccoli and Mixture: Pour the soup and cheese mixture over the drained broccoli florets. Toss gently to ensure the broccoli is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish of approximately 2 quarts or 8 inches in size. Transfer the broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the crushed cheese crackers evenly over the top as a crunchy topping.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.

Notes

• For a lighter version, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• You can make your own cream of mushroom soup to reduce sodium and additives.
• Cheese crackers can be substituted with crushed breadcrumbs or seasoned crackers.
• Ensure broccoli is well drained after boiling to prevent a watery casserole.
• This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; add extra baking time if baking from cold.

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheesy broccoli bake, creamy broccoli side dish, easy casserole recipe, vegetable casserole