Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is like a warm hug on a chilly fall evening, where each spoonful bursts with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender broccoli. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for sharing stories and laughter. Country fried chicken pairing.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I substitute for broccoli?
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- How do I make it gluten-free?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This casserole isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a dish. Picture family gatherings where this comforting meal graced the dinner table, eliciting smiles and satisfied sighs from loved ones. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a regular Tuesday night, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is the green and gold comfort food that makes every meal feel special. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory cheese with the freshness of broccoli for a delightful dish
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress at any gathering
- Versatile enough to be a side or main dish, it can adapt to your meal needs effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made this casserole for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they devoured every last bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: Whipped ricotta roasted carrots.
- Fresh Broccoli: Look for bright green florets; they should feel firm but tender when squeezed.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers the best flavor; consider shredding it fresh for optimal meltiness.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Choose low-fat versions for a lighter option without compromising flavor.
- Rice (white or brown): Cooked rice adds texture; use leftover rice if you have some on hand.
- Onion Powder: A sprinkle of onion powder provides depth; feel free to substitute with fresh onions if preferred.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: These add a delightful crunch on top; you can toast them lightly beforehand for extra crispiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Eggplant rollatini recipe.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out bubbly and golden.
Prepare the Broccoli: Rinse fresh broccoli under cold water and cut it into small florets. Steam them until bright green and slightly tender – about 3 minutes should do.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well-coated and combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly so every bite has that cheesy goodness.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top followed by panko bread crumbs. This crunchy layer will create a beautiful golden crust as it bakes.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want to see that glorious bubbling action happening – trust me, that’s when you know it’s ready!
This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole will not only fill your belly but warm your soul! Enjoy each mouthful of this comforting delight that truly captures the essence of fall cooking!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a comfort food classic that combines creamy cheese with vibrant broccoli
- This dish not only warms the heart but also adds a pop of color to your table, making it perfect for fall gatherings with friends and family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven while you steam the broccoli. Mix cheese sauce ingredients as broccoli cools, then combine everything before baking for a perfectly creamy casserole.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar for gouda or add in some crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. You can even toss in some cooked rice for added texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven until bubbly, ensuring that every cheesy bite is just as delightful as the first.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve creamy perfection, avoid overcooking the broccoli before mixing it with the cheese sauce
- This keeps it tender-crisp and vibrant in color
- Always taste your cheese sauce before adding it to ensure the seasoning is just right
Sharing a simple recipe like Cheesy Broccoli Casserole always brings back fond memories of cozy dinners at home, where laughter and good food filled the air. Cozy fall comfort food.
FAQ
What can I substitute for broccoli?
Cauliflower or mixed vegetables work well if you’re looking to change things up.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour in your cheese sauce for a safe option.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender broccoli and creamy cheese into a warm, inviting dish. Perfect for chilly nights, this casserole embodies nostalgia and warmth, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress your loved ones while being incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam broccoli florets for about 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, half of the cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and panko bread crumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg