Name: Easy Broccoli Casserole Recipe: Creamy and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets; 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar (divided); 1 large egg (beaten); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup crushed crackers or panko; 2 tbsp melted butter; Optional: Extra cheese (parsley); Suggested Pairings: White wine (roasted chicken)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Easy Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish, perfect as a side or light main for family dinners, holidays, or gatherings. This simple recipe, featuring tender broccoli in a rich, cheesy sauce with a golden, crunchy topping, delivers classic, crowd-pleasing flavors with minimal effort. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, optionally topped with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, this Easy Broccoli Casserole recipe offers a warm, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a straightforward oven method with pantry-friendly ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a go-to dish that brings cozy, heartwarming charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Casserole:

4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (thawed if frozen)
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For Serving:

Optional: Extra shredded cheese, fresh parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted chicken, mashed potatoes
Suggested Pairings: White wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: 2-quart baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, knife, cutting board, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart white ceramic baking dish.
Blanch Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain and plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Pat dry. Skip this step for thawed frozen broccoli.
Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in broccoli until evenly coated. Taste a small spoonful and adjust with more salt, pepper, or cheese for a balanced, creamy flavor.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or panko with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes. Optionally garnish with extra cheese or parsley. Serve warm in the white ceramic baking dish with roasted chicken or mashed potatoes, paired with white wine or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Easy Broccoli Casserole

Use fresh or frozen broccoli for convenience; blanching fresh keeps it vibrant and tender.
Taste and adjust the filling before baking to balance creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.
Use full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream for the richest texture; light versions work but may be less creamy.
Crush crackers finely for even coverage; panko adds extra crunch.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish to highlight the golden topping and melted cheese.
Make ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance; refrigerate and bake when ready (add 5–10 minutes to baking time if cold).
Cover with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
Enhance aesthetic: Add extra cheese or parsley for a vibrant, comforting pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Easy Broccoli Casserole: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crackers or panko.
Vegetarian Easy Broccoli Casserole: Use cream of mushroom soup; naturally vegetarian.
Low-Fat Easy Broccoli Casserole: Use light mayonnaise, sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Increase cheddar to 1 1/2 cups or add 1/4 cup Parmesan.
Broccoli Rice Casserole: Stir in 1 cup cooked rice with the filling for a heartier dish.
Bacon Broccoli Casserole: Add 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling.
Spicy Broccoli Casserole: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tbsp hot sauce to the filling.
Slow Cooker Easy Broccoli Casserole: Combine all ingredients (except topping) in a slow cooker; cook on low for 3–4 hours; add topping and broil in the oven for 5 minutes to crisp.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; they can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwaved.
Freeze baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Serve warm for the best creamy texture and crunchy topping.
Use as a side dish or light main for dinners or gatherings.
Pair with white wine or sparkling water to complement the rich, cheesy flavors.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish with garnishes for a cozy, comforting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (about 1 cup each):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 16g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 9g
Vitamin A: 20% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 60% Daily Value
Calcium: 20% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-fat or gluten-free options reduce fat or sodium). Moderate in calories; high in vitamin C from broccoli.

Conclusion

This Easy Broccoli Casserole recipe delivers a creamy, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing favorite. Its straightforward preparation and inviting presentation make it a go-to. The tender broccoli and golden topping delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its warm, comforting charm.