Dinner

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

ByMaya Quinn January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting and cheesy side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. This easy recipe combines tender broccoli with a creamy, flavorful sauce and a crunchy topping for the perfect balance of textures.

The image shows a white baking dish filled with a broccoli casserole. The bottom layer is a cheesy, creamy mixture with visible green broccoli pieces, topped with a thick layer of crushed golden crackers mixed with breadcrumbs that look crispy and crumbly. There is a dark wooden spoon inserted into the casserole from the right side, scooping some of the dish. The handle of the dish is visible on the left side, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

32 ounces frozen broccoli (2 (16-ounce) bags), thawed
1 large egg
10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
½ cup mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground paprika
2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)

Instructions

Step 1: Ensure the broccoli is fully thawed before beginning. To quickly thaw, microwave it at 50% power until no longer frozen but still cool to the touch.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
Step 4: Add the thawed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir gently until the broccoli is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Transfer the broccoli mixture to the prepared baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the casserole, then drizzle the melted butter on top of the crackers.
Step 7: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
Add cooked diced bacon or ham for extra flavor and heartiness.
Use smoked cheddar or a mix of cheeses for a richer taste.
To save time, shred your cheese ahead or use pre-shredded cheddar.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or rewarm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For best texture, avoid reheating multiple times.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a cheesy broccoli casserole made of bright green broccoli florets mixed with creamy yellow cheese sauce and topped with crunchy, golden cracker crumbs scattered unevenly over the surface. The casserole appears soft and slightly chunky, with some broccoli pieces visible and coated in the sauce. A silver fork rests on the plate, spearing a small portion of the casserole. In the background, a small white bowl filled with chopped green herbs and a white speckled plate with more casserole sit on a white marbled surface. A light blue cloth napkin is folded beside the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Steam or blanch it briefly until just tender before mixing it with the sauce to maintain the right texture.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.