There’s just something heartwarming about a Broccoli Cheese Casserole. For me, this dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug in a casserole dish! I first stumbled upon it during a potluck dinner years ago. One of my friends brought it, and I was immediately smitten. It was cheesy, comforting, and packed with that delightful crunch of broccoli! Ever since then, it has become a staple at family gatherings and cozy dinners at home.
What makes this dish truly special is its ability to transform humble broccoli (let’s be honest, a vegetable that often gets overlooked) into a creamy, cheesy explosion of flavor. Plus, it checks off the comfort food box while still giving a nod to health. I mean, we’re not just shoveling in the gooey goodness without a reason, right? So let me walk you through making this loveable dish!
What’s in Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
Broccoli: The star of the show! Fresh or frozen broccoli works well, and it’s rich in vitamins K and C.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for that bold flavor. The more cheese, the better, am I right?
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This brings a creamy texture to the casserole. You can use homemade or go for a low-sodium canned version.
Ritz Crackers: Crushed on top, they add a tantalizing crunch that really ties everything together. Who doesn’t love that buttery flavor?
Onion: A little bit of sautéed onion adds depth and sweetness to the mix.
Butter: Essential for flavor and ensuring that those Ritz crackers get golden and crispy.
Milk: This helps to create a luxurious creamy sauce that coats every bit of broccoli.
Is Broccoli Cheese Casserole Good for You?
You may think, “Wait, it’s a cheese casserole; how can it be good for me?” But hear me out!
Broccoli: As mentioned earlier, it’s packed with nutrients! It’s a fantastic source of fiber and can help support digestion.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese can be high in calories and fat, it also provides calcium and protein. Just be mindful of portions!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Using a lower-fat version or homemade can cut down on excess sodium and unhealthy fats.
The dish is comfort food for sure, but like all things in moderation, enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!
Ingredients List
– 4 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli (about 1 pound)
– 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
*This recipe serves about 6-8 people, making it perfect for a gathering or a family dinner!*
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for about 3-5 minutes until bright green but still crunchy. Drain and set aside. If using frozen, just thaw it.
3. In a large frying pan, melt about 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, which typically takes about 5 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, sautéed onion, shredded cheddar cheese (save some for topping), cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
5. Transfer the broccoli mixture into a greased casserole dish (about 9×13 inches).
6. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the remaining melted butter and the reserved shredded cheese. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the broccoli mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Fun Twists!
I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve to switch things up!
– Want to make it a meaty dish? Add cooked chicken or ham into the mix for a heartier meal.
– Try using a different type of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavorful twist!
– For a touch of garlic, throw in minced garlic along with the onions.
– You can replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
So, dish it up, gather your friends and family around the table, and savor that cheesy goodness. I absolutely love hearing from you, so after you give this casserole a try, drop me a note about how it turned out! Happy cooking!