If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings the warmth of home cooking to your table, this Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is just the thing! Bursting with vibrant broccoli florets, creamy cheese, and a crispy topping, it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is roughly $10.50, which makes it about $2.10 per serving (serves 5). Here’s the price breakdown for the ingredients:
- Broccoli (2 heads) – $3.00
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded) – $3.50
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can) – $1.50
- Butter (2 tbsp) – $0.25
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – $1.00
- Pearl onions (1 cup, optional) – $1.25
Why This Recipe Works
This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole works beautifully because it’s not only simple to prepare, but it also takes everyday ingredients and transforms them into a delightful dish that’s creamy and crunchy all at once. The broccoli retains its bright green color and crunch, while the cheese melts into a delicious, velvety sauce. Topped with golden breadcrumbs, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Plus, it’s an effortless way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss.
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious casserole:
- 2 heads of broccoli (around $3.00) – Fresh or frozen both work superbly!
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (approximately $3.50) – You can swap it for Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a twist.
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (about $1.50) – Feel free to use cream of chicken or a homemade version for a richer flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of butter (approximately $0.25) – You can use olive oil instead for a healthier option.
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (around $1.00) – Panko breadcrumbs are a great swap for extra crunch.
- 1 cup of pearl onions (optional, roughly $1.25) – These add sweetness; however, chopped onions work just as well.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial to ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese gets all melty and gooey. While your oven warms up, wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, leaving some stem on for extra flavor. If using frozen broccoli, simply let it thaw while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: In a large pot, bring some water to a boil. Once boiling, add your fresh or thawed broccoli and blanch for about 3-4 minutes. This helps to enhance its vibrant color and soften it slightly without losing that delicious crunch! After blanching, quickly drain and rinse the broccoli under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also keeps it bright green.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine your blanched broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spatula to mix everything until the broccoli is well-coated. Imagine the creamy goodness enveloping each floret! If you’re opting for pearl onions, fold them in at this stage for extra sweetness.
Step 4: Melt the butter in a small pan or microwave, then pour it over the breadcrumbs in a bowl. Toss to ensure all breadcrumbs are coated in buttery goodness. This will create that irresistible crunchy topping everyone loves!
Step 5: Now, transfer your broccoli mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly, creating a beautiful canvas for the topping. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, followed by the buttery breadcrumbs to get that golden finish.
Step 6: Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in! Once it’s perfectly cooked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before digging in. This will allow the flavors to settle perfectly.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a closer look at what’s packed in about one serving of your Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Total Fats: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which are rare, but hey, it happens!), let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 2-3 minutes, but for that fresh-out-of-the-oven vibe, the oven is the way to go!
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or a protein of your choice, like grilled chicken or a baked fish for a full meal. It’s the perfect side dish for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight dinner. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want to have this cheesy masterpiece as the star of the table?
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! Got leftover veggies? Toss them in! Carrots, cauliflower, or even mushrooms would make delightful additions. You could also experiment with different cheeses—imagine the melty magic of pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Also, if you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and soup. This versatile recipe really allows for creativity in the kitchen while maintaining that classic comfort!
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day before, cover it tightly with foil, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add about 10 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce for a fresher taste.
Q: Is this casserole gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is certified gluten-free.
Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
A: The recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure your soup is meat-free, and you’re good to go.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
