Broccoli cheese casserole is one of those timeless comfort foods that never goes out of style. With tender broccoli florets bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish makes for a perfect side or even a hearty vegetarian main course. It’s the ultimate combination of fresh vegetables and indulgent cheese, baked to perfection with a crispy topping that adds texture and crunch. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, this broccoli cheese casserole is sure to become a favorite on your menu.

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This recipe starts with fresh broccoli florets that are steamed until tender but still slightly crisp, ensuring they hold up well to the rich sauce. The sauce is made with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, giving it a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy broccoli. The addition of cream of mushroom soup and sour cream adds creaminess and richness, making every bite feel luxurious. Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper add just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the delicate balance of ingredients.

What really sets this casserole apart is the topping. Crushed buttery crackers (or breadcrumbs if you prefer) mixed with melted butter create a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Every forkful gives you the perfect combination of cheesy, creamy broccoli and crunchy topping, making this dish an irresistible side. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can switch up the cheeses or add a hint of spice with a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes to customize it to your liking.

Broccoli cheese casseroles have a long history in American cuisine, becoming a staple at family dinners and holiday tables thanks to their ease and crowd-pleasing flavor. Broccoli, packed with vitamins and minerals, becomes more than just a healthy side in this dish—it transforms into a comforting, cheesy delight that everyone can enjoy. The combination of broccoli and cheese has long been a beloved pairing, and this casserole takes that classic duo to new heights with its creamy sauce and crunchy topping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving - 1 Cup):

• - Calories: 280 kcal
• - Fat: 20g
• - Carbohydrates: 15g
• - Protein: 9g
• - Fiber: 2g

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Storage Tips:

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

- This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed before serving.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that broccoli is a member of the cabbage family? It’s related to vegetables like kale, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. While it’s a nutritional powerhouse full of vitamins C and K, it also pairs beautifully with rich ingredients like cheese and cream, making it a perfect vegetable for casseroles!

The Magic of Cheese and Broccoli Together:

The combination of broccoli and cheese is a classic pairing that highlights the best of both worlds—fresh, vibrant vegetables and rich, melty cheese. In this casserole, the cream of mushroom soup adds an extra layer of depth to the sauce, while the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses melt into the broccoli, creating a gooey, creamy dish that’s hard to resist. The topping of buttery crackers or breadcrumbs provides the perfect contrast to the softness of the broccoli and the creaminess of the sauce. Whether you’re using cheddar for a sharp bite or experimenting with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, the result is always comforting and delicious.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a complete meal.

- Pair with a simple salad and crusty bread for a light, vegetarian dinner.

- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of freshness.

- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

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Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• - 1/2 cup sour cream
• - 1/4 cup milk
• - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 1/4 teaspoon salt
• - 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (or breadcrumbs for topping)
• - 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully mixed.

4. Add the steamed broccoli to the mixture and gently toss to coat all the florets in the cheesy sauce.

5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

6. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

This broccoli cheese casserole is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, buttery topping. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main course, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!