Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A comforting and cheesy delight, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the perfect side dish for any meal. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it will surely please everyone at the table.
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a family favorite, combining fresh broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It's the perfect way to get your veggies in while enjoying a delicious meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy cheese sauce that binds the flavors together
- Easy to prepare and great for weeknight dinners
- A delightful combination of textures with tender broccoli and crispy topping
A Nutrient-Packed Side Dish
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, making it an excellent addition to any meal. This casserole offers a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy their greens.
The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender broccoli creates a satisfying dish that can stand alone or complement a variety of main courses. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, steak, or a vegetarian meal, this casserole is versatile enough to enhance any plate.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. Its comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleaser. The ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Additionally, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great choice for busy weeknights or when hosting friends and family, ensuring that you always have a tasty side dish on hand.
Customizing Your Casserole
One of the best aspects of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist. You can also add cooked chicken, ham, or even nuts for added protein and texture.
If you desire a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream or using a low-fat cream of mushroom soup. These adjustments maintain the dish's creamy goodness while offering a healthier alternative, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients well for a delicious casserole.
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Combine and Bake
Fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is often the case with such a delicious dish!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs wonderfully with various dishes. It makes a delightful side to roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a hearty pasta dish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
For a festive touch, consider garnishing the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor, making your meal visually appealing and delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it well before using.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or as a side for a holiday feast.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots or cauliflower to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
A comforting and cheesy delight, this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the perfect side dish for any meal. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it will surely please everyone at the table.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g