Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

There’s just something irresistible about a bubbling, golden Broccoli Cheese Casserole—tender broccoli florets enveloped in a dreamy, creamy cheese sauce, with notes of garlic, a hint of tang, and that perfect cheesy finish. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and the moment it hits the table, you know it won’t last long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Broccoli Cheese Casserole is in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a purpose, adding rich flavor, creamy goodness, or a pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Broccoli florets (1½ pounds): The heart of the casserole—fresh or frozen, they bring color, texture, and nutrients.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces): Adds that ultra-creamy, melt-in-your-mouth finish; be sure it’s at room temperature so it blends smoothly.
• Sour cream (¼ cup): Just a hint of tang that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar gives both gooey meltiness and that signature cheesy flavor.
• Grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Delivers savory, salty depth and helps with that golden crust.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2): For aromatic warmth and an irresistible savory note.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that adds brightness and rounds out the flavors—feel free to adjust to taste.
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Both are crucial players in seasoning the casserole to perfection.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: An optional garnish for a pop of color and just a little kick at the end.

Variations

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe is truly a canvas for your creativity. Don’t be afraid to tweak and twist it—after all, that’s half the fun! Here are a few ways to make it fit your family’s tastes or dietary needs:

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham for a heartier main dish.
• Low-Carb Swap: Use cauliflower florets instead of broccoli for a delicious twist (or mix both for extra variety!).
• Crunchy Topping: Top with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers before baking for a crispy golden finish.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try gouda, mozzarella, or Swiss if you’re feeling adventurous—they all melt beautifully with their own personality.
• Make it Spicy: Toss in diced jalapeños or a little extra crushed red pepper for a casserole with a feisty kick.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F. Grease a 2.5 to 3-quart baking dish with a pat of butter—this not only prevents sticking, but adds a subtle buttery flavor to every scoop of your casserole.

Step 2: Par-Cook the Broccoli

In a large skillet, bring about ½-inch of salted water to a boil. Add your broccoli florets, cover, and cook over high heat for 3 to 4 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain well—excess water will make your casserole runny, so don’t be shy about giving those florets a good shake!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat and, in the same skillet (or a bowl, if you prefer), combine the cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar. Stir until the mixture is gorgeously creamy and well blended—let the cream cheese melt fully for extra smoothness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Add the drained broccoli to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat every floret. Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for baking perfection.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Scatter the remaining cheddar and the parmesan cheese over the top of your Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving so every scoop stays firm and creamy.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Garnishes

Add a shower of extra parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes just before serving. These simple garnishes boost both the flavor and that tempting visual appeal—perfect for special occasions or making an ordinary weeknight feel fancy.

Side Dishes

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a star at the holiday table, but it’s just as cheerful next to roast chicken, glazed ham, or a simple pan-seared salmon. For a cozy family dinner, serve it with fluffy rice or a crisp green salad to balance out the creamy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop your casserole into individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party touch, or bake it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic vibe. For potlucks, bake and serve in a pretty, oven-to-table dish—just be prepared for recipe requests afterward!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3–4 days and makes a fabulous lunch or easy side with minimal effort the next day.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Cheese Casserole! Cool it completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep its charm for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the creamiest results, reheat the casserole in a 350˚F oven (covered) until warmed through, then uncover for the last few minutes to re-crisp the cheese. The microwave works fine for individual portions—just check and stir after 30–40 seconds to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving soul-warming comfort, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole absolutely delivers. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to draw smiles and second helpings—so why not make tonight a little cozier and give it a try?

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