Discover the comforting, creamy goodness of Broccoli Cheese Casserole! This easy-to-make dish combines fresh broccoli, gooey cheese, and a crunchy topping for a delightful side that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner or as a holiday side dish, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Budget Information
The total cost of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe is approximately $12, which means it’s about $2.00 per serving based on a yield of 6 servings. Perfect for a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Why This Recipe Works
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a surefire winner because it brings together the best components of a cozy meal—nutrient-rich veggies, creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping. The fresh broccoli adds a delightful bite, the cheese creates a luscious texture, and the crispy topping elevates each spoonful. It’s comforting, satisfying, and simple enough for even the busiest home cook!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
To create this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – $2.00 (You can use frozen broccoli, just thaw and drain before using)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – $3.00 (Feel free to substitute with mozzarella or a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option)
- 1 cup sour cream – $1.00 (Greek yogurt works great as a healthy swap)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – $1.00 (You can use Greek yogurt again or even a dairy-free mayo)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – $0.50 (Panko breadcrumbs will give an extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – $0.25
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – $0.25
- Salt and pepper to taste – $0.05
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want the casserole to bake evenly and reach that perfect gooey texture!
Step 2: Prepare your broccoli by either steaming it lightly on the stovetop or microwaving it just until tender. You want it to maintain some crunch, so aim for about 2-3 minutes, then drain it well. This prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until smooth and creamy. This is where the magic starts to happen—the creamy base is what makes every bite of this casserole so tangy and delicious!
Step 4: Add the steamed broccoli and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl, and gently fold everything together. It’s like you’re giving the broccoli a cheesy, dreamy embrace that they will never forget!
Step 5: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining half-cup of cheddar cheese. This topping is the pièce de résistance; it will create a crispy, golden crust on top of your casserole that you won’t be able to resist!
Step 7: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture over the broccoli mixture in the baking dish. Don’t be shy—get that tasty crunch all over!
Step 8: Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. While it’s baking, the kitchen will fill with the most tantalizing aroma—you’ll think dinner is taking too long, but trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step 9: Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This is the moment when you can proudly place it on the table and bask in the oohs and aahs of your family! Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find in each serving of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Total Fats: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
You can store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If you want to save time, the microwave works too—just be aware that the topping might lose a bit of its crispiness. You can also freeze this casserole for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat as needed!
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is just begging to be paired with a succulent roasted chicken or a juicy steak. It also shines as a side to any holiday feast alongside turkey or ham. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies to balance that cheesy goodness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese; pepper jack adds a nice kick, while gouda gives it a smokier flavor. If you want to amp up the nutrition, consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or spinach to the mix. Remember, the key here is gentle mixing—over-mixing can break down the broccoli and ruin that delightful crunch!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until the baking point and store it in the fridge overnight. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to bake.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! If you’re short on time, just thaw it and make sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven is best for maintaining that crispy topping, but the microwave is convenient if you’re in a hurry.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Definitely! Cooked chicken or ham would be fantastic mixed in for an extra protein boost.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
When the top is golden brown and bubbling, you’ll know it’s ready! A knife inserted in the center should come out hot, and that’s your cue!
