Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy side dish perfect for holidays or any family dinner. Featuring tender steamed broccoli smothered in a rich mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, cream cheese, sour cream, and savory seasonings, all topped with buttery crushed crackers for a golden, crunchy finish. Easy to prepare and bake, it’s a comforting American classic that pleases all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
Cheese & Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Condiments & Seasonings
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the fresh broccoli florets for 4 to 5 minutes until they turn bright green and become slightly tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheeses: Stir shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses into the creamy mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Combine with Broccoli: Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture, ensuring all florets are well coated but not mashed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until fully combined.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For a sharper and more intense flavor, use extra-sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar.
- Replace half the broccoli with cauliflower to add a different texture and flavor variation.
- Add cooked bacon bits into the casserole mixture before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
