Description
Comfort meets classic with this mouthwatering Broccoli Cheese Casserole, blending tender broccoli and creamy cheese into a delightful side dish. Cheesy, creamy goodness awaits you at the dinner table, promising a satisfying experience that elevates any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Vegetable Ingredients:
- 4 cups (1 lb / 450 g) broccoli florets
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup (100 g) crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the kitchen workspace by selecting a suitable baking dish and greasing its interior to prevent sticking. Position the oven rack and set the temperature to 350F (175C) for optimal cooking.
- Assess the broccoli’s condition: if fresh, briefly steam or blanch the florets until they reach a tender-crisp texture. For frozen broccoli, ensure complete thawing and thorough drainage to prevent excess moisture.
- Create a creamy base by combining condensed soup, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and half the cheddar cheese in a spacious mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Gently incorporate the prepared broccoli into the creamy mixture, ensuring each floret receives an even coating of the rich sauce. Strive for a uniform distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a consistent layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top for an additional layer of cheesy goodness.
- Craft a crispy topping by combining crushed crackers with melted butter, creating a golden, crunchy element. Distribute the mixture evenly over the cheese-topped casserole.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until the edges bubble enthusiastically and the topping transforms into a beautiful golden-brown crust, typically requiring 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest briefly, enabling the flavors to settle and the dish to set. Serve warm as a delectable side or satisfying main course.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by using sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense taste profile.
- Ensure broccoli is not overcooked to maintain a crisp texture and vibrant green color.
- Drain frozen broccoli thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Experiment with different types of crackers for a unique crunchy topping variation.
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier alternative.
- Add cooked diced chicken to transform this side dish into a complete meal.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium condensed soup and unsalted butter.
- Boost nutrition by incorporating additional vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers and soup.
- Create a vegetarian version by substituting cream of mushroom soup for a plant-based option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 328
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 759 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg