Easy Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor, this Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is exactly what you need. Bursting with cheesy goodness, tender broccoli, and a delightfully crunchy cracker topping, this casserole brings together classic ingredients in a way that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, this Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole will quickly become a staple recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and cheesy: Melted cheese combined with fresh broccoli creates a warm and satisfying dish every time.
• Simple ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh produce without requiring hard-to-find items.
• Quick to prepare: From chopping to baking, you’ll have this casserole ready in under an hour.
• Kid-friendly: The cheesy flavor and crunchy cracker topping make veggies exciting for little ones.
• Great as leftovers: Reheats beautifully while retaining flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole relies on a handful of essential ingredients that balance fresh, creamy, and crunchy textures for an unforgettable dish. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s enhancing flavor, adding moisture, or providing that golden topping.

• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli adds vibrant color and healthful nutrients.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar ensures rich, melty cheesiness throughout the casserole.
• Sour cream or cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy base that holds everything together beautifully.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create the crispy cracker topping.
• Crushed crackers: Saltine or buttery crackers work perfectly for a crunchy, golden crust.
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Provide subtle savory depth without overpowering the flavors.
• Milk: Lightens the creamy mixture for a smooth texture.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish just right.

Variations for Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole

Feel free to tailor this Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole recipe to fit your taste or dietary preferences. The adaptable nature of this dish means you can swap ingredients without losing that comforting essence.

• Vegetarian option: Skip any meat additions and rely on cheese and veggies to keep it hearty.
• Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or ham for extra protein and flavor.
• Different cheeses: Try mixing mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique taste twist.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free crackers or crushed nuts as the topping.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to give the casserole a kick.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and prepare broccoli

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, lightly steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender but still bright green. This keeps them from becoming mushy during baking.

Step 2: Mix the creamy base

In a large bowl, combine sour cream (or cream of mushroom soup), milk, cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully incorporated to create a smooth, flavorful sauce that will bind the casserole.

Step 3: Combine broccoli and sauce

Gently fold the cooked broccoli into the creamy cheese mixture, ensuring each floret is well coated but not broken down.

Step 4: Prepare the cracker topping

Crush the crackers into small pieces, mix them with melted butter, and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the broccoli and cheese in your casserole dish for that perfect crunchy topping.

Step 5: Bake until bubbly and golden

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole

• Use sharp cheese: The sharper the cheddar, the more pronounced the flavor in your casserole.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Steaming until just tender prevents it from becoming mushy in the final bake.
• Butter the topping well: Melted butter helps crackers achieve a golden, crispy texture.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes makes serving easier and flavors settle.
• Add extra seasoning cautiously: The cheese and crackers add salt, so taste before adding more salt.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top to add a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the richness.

Side Dishes

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed rice to balance the cheesy richness with light and fresh elements.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in individual ramekins for elegant portions, or layer it over cooked pasta or quinoa to transform it into a hearty main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover broccoli cheese & cracker casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole before baking; cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy on top.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture making the casserole watery.

What kind of crackers work best for the topping?

Saltine crackers are classic for their light crunch and subtle saltiness, but buttery crackers or Ritz work wonderfully too.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, substitute the cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives and use dairy-free butter for the topping.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, diced carrots, or cauliflower can be mixed in to add variety and nutrients.

How do I prevent the topping from burning?

If your topping browns too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is a true comfort-food champion — easy to make, full of cheesy delight, and wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a quick weeknight dinner, it’s sure to warm your kitchen and your heart. Give it a try, and prepare to add a new favorite to your recipe collection!

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