Name: Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups chopped broccoli; 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup mayonnaise (or Miracle Whip; can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream); 1/4 cup butter, melted (1/2 stick); 2 large eggs, slightly beaten; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 1/2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese (divided); 1/2 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

I absolutely love this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe because it combines comfort food vibes with a fresh veggie twist that always hits the spot. Every time I make it, the rich, cheesy flavors and tender broccoli shine through, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s such an easy, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect to share with family or friends anytime you want to elevate your meal effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

What really captivates me about this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is how the flavors blend so perfectly – the sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful tang, while the creamy mayo and soup base create a luscious texture that wraps the broccoli in cheesy goodness. I’m always amazed how such simple ingredients deliver such a comforting and satisfying taste that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Beyond the flavor, I appreciate how straightforward it is to prepare. It literally takes me about 15 minutes of prep, then I just pop it into the oven and wait for that golden bubbly perfection. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights when I want something delicious without a ton of effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side at holiday dinners or bring to potlucks where I’m always guaranteed compliments. This recipe really stands out because it balances ease, taste, and nostalgia all in one dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three steps of making a broccoli casserole on a white marbled surface. At the top, there is a wooden bowl filled with a creamy white mixture mixed with small orange bits, and a wooden spoon is stirring it. To the right, a white bowl holds fresh green broccoli pieces, and to the left, a small white bowl contains crushed orange chips. In the middle, an oval white dish is filled with a green and white mixture of broccoli and creamy sauce. At the bottom, the same white dish is covered with a layer of crushed orange chips sprinkled on top of the broccoli and creamy mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the fresh broccoli providing vibrant color and bite, to the melted butter and sharp cheddar cheese contributing richness and flavor. The combination of cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise ensures a creamy, velvety texture that binds everything together flawlessly.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Broccoli (4 cups chopped): The star veggie, providing crunch and nutrition while soaking up all the cheesy goodness.
Cream of chicken soup (1 can): Adds creamy depth and helps bind the casserole together.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): I like mayo for richness, but you can also use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier twist.
Butter (1/4 cup melted): Enhances flavor and keeps everything nice and moist.
Eggs (2 large, beaten): Work as a binder to give structure to the casserole.
Yellow onion (1/2 medium, finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and savory note to the mix.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle kick and flavor depth.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Provides the perfect zing and melty texture that makes this dish irresistible.
Ritz crackers (1/2 sleeve, crushed): Create a buttery, crunchy topping to finish the casserole on a high note.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when the casserole goes in, allowing that cheesy crust to form beautifully.

Step 2: Place the chopped broccoli in a steaming basket over boiling water and steam for about 5 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and perfectly textured.

Step 3: Remove the broccoli and chop into bite-sized pieces if needed, then transfer it to a medium mixing bowl. Getting uniform pieces ensures every bite is balanced.

Step 4: Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, melted butter, beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper to the broccoli. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined.

Step 5: Stir in 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese into the broccoli mixture. This cheese inside the casserole creates that rich, melty core everyone loves.

Step 6: Lightly spray an 8×8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 7: Pour the entire broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.

Step 8: Top the casserole with the remaining 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top. These crackers add that golden crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.

Step 9: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. You’re looking for melted cheese bubbling at the edges and a golden brown crust forming on top.

Step 10: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set slightly for easier slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe serves about 8 generous portions, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Prep time is just 15 minutes, with a baking time of 30 minutes, so the total comes to roughly 55 minutes from start to finish. I usually let it rest for around 5 minutes after baking to firm up the casserole, which makes plating easier and helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a layered dish of broccoli and cheese. The bottom layer is bright green broccoli florets with a soft texture, topped by a thick, creamy, orange cheese sauce that covers the broccoli evenly. On top, there is a golden-brown crumb crust that looks crunchy and scattered in small pieces. The background is a white marbled surface with a blurred white baking dish and a silver spoon partly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this casserole, I love pairing it with something simple and light to balance its richness. It goes wonderfully alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak, but also complements vegetarian mains like stuffed peppers or quinoa bowls. For a family dinner, I often add a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten things up.

Presentation-wise, I like garnishing the casserole just before serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few extra shredded cheddar cheese sprinkles that melt perfectly into the warm dish. Serving this hot straight from the oven is my favorite way because the melted cheese is at its gooey best. However, it also tastes great warm or at room temperature, making it a nifty option for potlucks or casual dinner parties.

For beverages, I frequently pair this with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir when serving wine, which complements the cheese nicely without overpowering the flavors. If alcohol isn’t on the menu, a sparkling water with a splash of citrus or a crisp iced tea elevates the meal without clashing with the casserole’s rich profile.

Variations

I love how versatile this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe can be. If you want a protein boost, adding cooked diced chicken or bacon bits works beautifully. For a twist on the cheese, you could swap sharp cheddar for a blend of gouda or mozzarella for a creamier texture and different flavor nuances.

If you’re accommodating dietary needs, this recipe can be made gluten-free simply by replacing the Ritz cracker topping with crushed gluten-free crackers or toasted almond slivers. For a vegetarian but dairy-loving crowd, just ensure the soup you use is veggie-based. If you want to make it vegan, try using a plant-based cream soup, vegan mayo, and dairy-free cheese alternatives – the texture will be slightly different but still satisfying.

Sometimes, I even bake this casserole in individual ramekins for a cute presentation or try baking it in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach that lets the flavors meld all day. Each cooking method offers a slightly different experience but all delicious in their own ways.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps well for up to 3-4 days. Using glass containers helps retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. Before sealing, I like to let the casserole cool completely to avoid condensation building up inside the container.

Freezing

This casserole freezes nicely if you want to save portions for later. I recommend freezing it in a freezer-safe dish or individual portions wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It’s best used within 2-3 months for peak flavor and texture. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using the oven at 325°F, covered loosely with foil, for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through to preserve that crispy topping. Microwaving works in a pinch but can sometimes make the casserole a bit soggy, so I try to avoid that when possible. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating can help refresh the melty, cheesy appeal.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine, and I usually thaw it and pat it dry before steaming or briefly sautéing to avoid excess water in the casserole. It’s a handy shortcut when fresh isn’t available.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. For a vegetarian option, choose a vegetable cream soup or make your own creamy base with plant-based milk and seasonings.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just add the topping and bake as directed. It’s perfect for prepping before busy days!

Is there a way to make this recipe lower in fat?

Definitely. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, reduced-fat cheese, and a lighter soup like reduced-fat cream of chicken can help cut back on fat without sacrificing too much flavor or creaminess.

How do I get the topping extra crispy?

For a crunchier topping, you can toss the crushed Ritz crackers with a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top. Also, broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking gives that golden, crisp finish I love.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that never fails to comfort and delight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy side for your weeknight meal, this casserole brings cheesy, flavorful happiness with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites too!