This Broccoli Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any meal! With tender broccoli and creamy sauce, it’s a comfort food that even kids love.
I can’t resist sneaking some extra pieces of broccoli when I make this. It’s a sneaky way to get in those veggies! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star here, bringing bright flavor and a healthy touch. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too, just be sure to thaw and drain it well first!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives your casserole creaminess. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or even a homemade bechamel sauce for a scratch-made feel.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor depth!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap—just keep an eye on the tanginess level!
How Do I Properly Cook Broccoli for the Casserole?
Cooking broccoli just right is key! You want it tender but still crisp, so follow these steps:
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. This helps brighten the green color and flavors.
- Once boiling, add the broccoli florets, and cook for just 3-4 minutes.
- Immediately drain and rinse the broccoli under cold water to stop the cooking process—this keeps it vibrant and crunchy.
Trust me, perfectly cooked broccoli makes all the difference in this casserole!
How to Make Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (French-fried onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Broccoli Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30-35 minutes to bake. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the broccoli, another 10 minutes mixing everything together, and then the rest of the time letting it bake until golden and bubbly. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious casserole in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it nice and hot while you prepare the casserole!
2. Cook the Broccoli:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fresh broccoli florets and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. After that, drain the broccoli and set it aside.
3. Mix the Other Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine with Broccoli:
Now, gently add the cooked broccoli to the sauce mixture, folding it in until everything is well coated. This step is key to a deliciously cheesy casserole!
5. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it lightly. Then, transfer the broccoli mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top of the mixture. This adds a lovely crunch that makes the casserole extra special!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Put the casserole in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, take it out and let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Then, dig in and enjoy your cheesy, delicious Broccoli Casserole!
This dish makes a perfect side for any meal, or even a comforting main dish on its own. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole. This will help maintain the dish’s desired texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Vegetable broth with a bit of cream is also a tasty option if you want to keep it vegetarian.