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Broccoli Casserole

Long And Easy To Read Classic Broccoli Casserole

This classic, creamy broccoli casserole is quick to assemble and features a rich cheese sauce base topped with buttery Ritz crackers, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners. It is the definition of comfort food!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole Base
  • 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 1 can (10.5 ounce) condensed cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion optional
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded divided (1 1/2 cups for the mix, 1/2 cup for the topping)
For the Topping
  • 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers crushed (about 1 sleeve)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Saucepan or Steamer Basket

Method
 

STEP 1: PREPARE THE BROCCOLI & OVEN
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or an 8x8 inch dish for a thicker casserole).
  2. Prepare the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, boil or steam the florets for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender-crisp. If using frozen broccoli, microwave according to package directions until thawed and slightly tender. Drain the broccoli very well and set aside.
STEP 2: CREATE THE CREAMY MIXTURE
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream), the lightly beaten egg, chopped onion (if using), pepper, salt, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth.
  2. Stir 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the soup mixture until fully incorporated.
STEP 3: ASSEMBLE & TOP
  1. Add the drained, cooked broccoli florets to the creamy soup mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until the broccoli is evenly coated. Pour the broccoli mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Prepare the topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and the 4 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are fully moistened.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the broccoli mixture in the dish, then scatter the buttered cracker crumbs over the layer of cheese.
STEP 4: BAKE & SERVE
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cracker topping is deeply golden brown.
  2. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of crumbled cooked bacon or shredded chicken to the mix before baking. If you prefer a crunchier casserole, use an 8x8 inch dish and increase the bake time slightly.