Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comfort food classic that combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, creamy sauce made from condensed soup, mayo, and Cheddar cheese. The casserole is baked until golden brown and bubbly, making it the perfect addition to any holiday table or weeknight dinner. It’s a great way to get even picky eaters to enjoy their veggies!

Not only is this dish easy to make, but it’s also versatile. You can add in your favorite seasonings, mix in other vegetables like cauliflower, or top it with crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or as a simple dinner option, this casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Full Recipe:

1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg
1 small onion, chopped
1 package (16 oz) frozen broccoli florets, thawed
1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, egg, and chopped onion. Stir well.
Add the thawed broccoli florets and 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese to the soup mixture. Stir until combined. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Broccoli Cheese Casserole: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is one of those comfort food dishes that people love to enjoy during the holiday season or as part of a regular weeknight dinner. Its creamy, cheesy, and rich flavors are balanced with the natural goodness of broccoli, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking for a vegetarian-friendly side dish to pair with a holiday roast, this casserole never disappoints.

In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons why this dish is such a beloved staple, its nutritional aspects, the versatility of the recipe, and why it’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Let’s explore what makes this classic casserole so special, and conclude with why you should definitely add it to your culinary repertoire.

Why Broccoli Cheese Casserole is So Popular

Broccoli Cheese Casserole has become a well-loved dish across many households for a number of reasons:

Comfort food at its finest: The combination of rich cheese, creamy sauce, and tender broccoli creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It has the power to evoke nostalgic feelings of home-cooked meals shared with family during the holidays.
Family-friendly: This is one of the few vegetable-based dishes that kids are more than happy to eat. The cheese and creamy texture make the broccoli more appealing, even for picky eaters.
Simple ingredients: Broccoli Cheese Casserole uses pantry staples like condensed soup, cheese, and frozen broccoli, making it affordable and easy to prepare. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Versatile recipe: This casserole is extremely adaptable. You can adjust it to suit your taste by adding different vegetables or cheeses. It can be served as a side dish, but it also works as a standalone meal for those looking for something lighter but still satisfying.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a potluck, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a perfect addition to any table. It’s a crowd-pleaser that complements a wide variety of main dishes, from turkey and ham to vegetarian spreads.
Great for meal prep: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until it’s time to bake. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling, and delicious. It also reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.

Health Benefits of Broccoli in the Dish

While this casserole is indulgent with its cheesy and creamy base, broccoli brings a lot of nutritional value to the table. Here are some of the health benefits of incorporating broccoli into your diet:

Rich in vitamins and minerals: Broccoli is loaded with vitamins C, K, and A, as well as folate and fiber. It’s a low-calorie vegetable that supports immune health, helps with digestion, and aids in the absorption of nutrients.
Antioxidants galore: This green veggie is a powerhouse of antioxidants, including sulforaphane, which has been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases. It can help lower inflammation in the body and promote overall well-being.
Supports bone health: The high levels of calcium and vitamin K found in broccoli are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones, which is especially important as we age.
Boosts digestion: Broccoli is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation. The fiber also makes this dish more filling, ensuring you stay satisfied longer after eating.
Great for heart health: Including broccoli in your diet can help improve cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health due to its nutrient profile and fiber content.

Even though this casserole is creamy and rich, the inclusion of broccoli adds a nutritional boost that makes it a healthier choice compared to other heavier, purely cheese-based casseroles.

Versatility: Customize the Casserole to Your Taste

One of the best things about Broccoli Cheese Casserole is its adaptability. Here are some ways you can modify the recipe to suit your preferences:

Switch up the cheese: While Cheddar is the most common cheese used in this dish, you can easily swap it out for Gouda, Swiss, or even a mixture of cheeses for added complexity. If you prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack or Mozzarella are good options.
Add more veggies: Broccoli may be the star of the show, but you can add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or even peas to enhance the flavor and nutrition. For a heartier dish, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
Toppings for texture: Some people like to add a crunchy topping for added texture. You can sprinkle the top of the casserole with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or French-fried onions before baking to give the dish a crispy finish.
Make it vegetarian-friendly: To make this casserole vegetarian, you can substitute the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a vegetarian-friendly alternative or make your own using plant-based ingredients. The dish is already meat-free, making it a great choice for those following a vegetarian diet.
Add protein: If you’re looking to make this casserole more substantial, you can add proteins such as cooked chicken, turkey, or ham. This transforms the dish from a side to a hearty main course.

Occasions to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Cheese Casserole is versatile enough to be served during different occasions:

Holiday dinners: This casserole is often a staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dinners. Its creamy, cheesy goodness pairs well with roasted meats and other holiday favorites.
Potluck gatherings: Since this casserole can feed a crowd, it’s a go-to option for potlucks or large gatherings. You can make it in advance and bake it just before serving, ensuring it stays hot and fresh.
Weeknight meals: For busy families, this casserole is an easy way to get dinner on the table without a lot of fuss. Since it reheats well, it’s great for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
Vegetarian meal option: If you’re looking for a meatless main course, this casserole fits the bill. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Comfort food for any season: Whether it’s a cold winter night or a family barbecue in the summer, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that fits every season. The warmth of the dish makes it especially popular in the cooler months, but it’s a crowd-pleaser year-round.

Conclusion: Why You Should Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole

In conclusion, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a classic dish that checks all the boxes. It’s comforting, versatile, easy to make, and loved by all ages. Whether you’re looking to make a hearty side for a holiday dinner or a quick meal for a busy weeknight, this casserole is an excellent choice.

Its blend of rich cheese and wholesome broccoli makes it both indulgent and nutritious, while the variety of potential customizations allows you to make it your own. Serve it as a side dish, enjoy it as a main course, or bring it to your next family gathering — this casserole will undoubtedly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

With minimal prep and a short list of ingredients, Broccoli Cheese Casserole is proof that delicious and comforting meals don’t have to be complicated. Now that you know its many benefits, it’s time to give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of serving up a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table.