Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish perfect for holidays, family dinners, or potlucks. Featuring tender broccoli, a homemade cheddar cheese sauce, and a buttery cracker topping, it’s a classic recipe made from scratch — no canned soup required!

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
  5. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens — about 3–5 minutes.
  6. Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
  7. Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  11. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Preparation Time:
15 minutes

Cooking Time:
30 minutes

Total Time:
45 minutes

Serving Size:
1 cup

Nutrition Information:

  • Calories: 310 per serving
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 11g

Additional Notes:

  • You can substitute frozen broccoli (thawed and drained) if fresh isn’t available.
  • For extra protein, add cooked chicken or diced ham to the cheese mixture before baking.
  • Make it ahead: assemble the casserole without the topping, refrigerate overnight, then top and bake when ready.

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