Description
This Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole is a warm, comforting dish combining tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese with a crunchy buttery cracker topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this easy-to-make recipe is cheesy, flavorful, and packed with fresh veggies that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups buttery crackers, crushed (e.g., Ritz or saltine crackers)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender, preserving their bright color and firm texture without making them soggy.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine broccoli and sauce: Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the creamy mixture, ensuring every floret is evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
- Prepare the cracker topping: Finely crush the buttery crackers and mix them with the melted butter and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese to create a golden, crispy topping.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased casserole dish and evenly spread the cracker topping over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli when possible for best texture and flavor.
- Mix melted butter thoroughly with the crushed crackers to achieve a crunchy topping.
- Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy depth.
- Spread the cracker topping evenly for consistent crunch in every bite.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheese casserole, broccoli cheese, comfort food, veggie casserole, easy dinner, family meal, baked casserole