Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:

• Broccoli: For the best results, I recommend using fresh broccoli florets. Frozen broccoli can sometimes retain excess moisture, leading to a watery casserole and slightly mushy broccoli. If you opt for frozen broccoli, make sure to drain it thoroughly and skip the blanching step.
• Shredded Cheese: I’m a big fan of the bold flavor of sharp cheddar, but feel free to use your favorite variety. I also strongly recommend grating your cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a superior flavor – it’s worth the extra few minutes!
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This pantry staple provides the creamy base for the broccoli casserole and helps bind all the flavors together. If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These two ingredients add richness and a delightful tang, creating a balanced and creamy sauce that’s anything but bland.
• Garlic Powder: For that extra touch of savory flavor.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to create a creamy yet structured texture in the casserole.
• Cheese Crackers: Crush them finely for even coverage or leave a few larger pieces for added crunch. Just like in my baked cheddar Dijon chicken tenders recipe, Cheez-Its are my absolute favorite – they offer a more intense flavor compared to traditional breadcrumbs. Ritz crackers, club crackers, or even breadcrumbs can also be used successfully in this recipe.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

This broccoli cheddar casserole is incredibly easy to assemble. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof dish every time.

1. Blanch the broccoli florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for just 1 minute to keep it crisp-tender. Immediately drain the broccoli and transfer it to a kitchen towel or paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. (If you’re using frozen broccoli, skip this step!)
2. Mix the sauce. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayo, garlic powder, eggs, and a dash of salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the shredded cheese and broccoli. Ensure the broccoli is well coated in the cheese sauce.
4. Bake. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
5. Add the topping. While the casserole is baking, crush the crackers. Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the casserole and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and the broccoli cheese filling is bubbly and heated through.

Kelly’s Note: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set up slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve neatly.

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

One of the best things about this broccoli and cheese casserole recipe is how adaptable it is! It’s easy to customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few delicious variations to try:

• French-fried onions: Mix them into the broccoli mixture for added flavor and texture, or sprinkle some on top for a crispy, oniony twist. Think green bean casserole vibes!
• Cauliflower: Swap out some – or all – of the broccoli for cauliflower florets or your other favorite cruciferous vegetables.
• More veggies: Toss in some canned corn, peas, green beans, or diced carrots for a pop of color and an extra nutrient boost.
• Rotisserie chicken: Transform this side dish into a complete meal by stirring in shredded rotisserie chicken. Dinner is served! For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based chicken alternatives.
• Onion: Sauté a diced onion in butter until softened and fragrant. Then, mix it into the cheese sauce for an added layer of savory flavor. Caramelized onions can bring an even deeper, sweeter flavor profile to the dish.
• Cooked rice: Stir in some cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice) for a heartier twist. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rice! The rice adds substance, making it more filling.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
• Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or pepper jack to create unique flavor combinations. A blend of cheeses can create a more complex flavor.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky and savory element that pairs perfectly with broccoli and cheese.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature broccoli cheese casserole recipe!

Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions

Planning ahead? This broccoli cheese casserole can be easily prepared in advance:

Make ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping), cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When baking straight from the fridge, add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Leftovers: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Freezing This Casserole

Here’s how to freeze a fully cooked casserole for convenient future enjoyment:

Start by lining your baking dish with foil, ensuring the foil extends up over the sides. Assemble and cook your casserole according to the recipe instructions, then allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with the overhanging foil (keeping it in the dish) and place it in the freezer.

Once the casserole is frozen solid, lift it out of the dish using the foil overhangs. Add a second layer of foil for extra protection, wrap it securely, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen casserole, unwrap the top layer of foil, place the frozen casserole back in its original baking dish, and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the broccoli casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated all the way through and bubbly.

Looking for more delicious side dish inspiration? Check out these family-friendly recipes: