There’s something so comforting about a cheesy casserole that comes bubbling out of the oven.
This broccoli cheese casserole is creamy, savory, and topped with buttery Ritz crackers for the perfect crunch.
It’s an easy dish that works for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
The recipe is simple to prepare and uses pantry staples.
Broccoli balances the richness with a fresh, hearty vegetable base.
The crunchy Ritz topping adds a buttery finish that makes every bite irresistible.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh broccoli provides the main flavor and texture. Steaming before baking ensures it stays tender.
Cream of chicken soup creates a creamy base that ties the casserole together.
Mayonnaise adds richness and tang, though Greek yogurt or sour cream can be swapped in for a lighter touch.
Sharp cheddar cheese gives bold, melty flavor throughout.
Ritz crackers bring a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Steam broccoli lightly—don’t overcook, as it will bake further in the oven.
Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for the best flavor impact.
Crush Ritz crackers just before topping to keep them crunchy.
For a lighter casserole, swap mayo for Greek yogurt.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1 – Prepare the oven
Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly coat an 8×8-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Step 2 – Steam the broccoli
Place broccoli in a steaming basket over boiling water.
Steam 5 minutes until fork-tender.
Remove, chop into bite-size pieces, and place in a mixing bowl.
Step 3 – Mix the filling
Add cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, melted butter, eggs, onion, salt, and pepper to the broccoli.
Stir until combined.
Step 4 – Add the cheese
Mix in half of the cheddar cheese, folding gently until evenly distributed.
Step 5 – Assemble the casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheese and crushed Ritz crackers.
Step 6 – Bake to perfection
Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
Serve warm.
What to Serve It With
This casserole makes a perfect side to roast chicken, baked ham, or turkey.
Pair it with rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Variations / Substitutions
Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
Swap Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a lighter topping.
Add cooked rice or quinoa to make it a more filling main dish.
Stir in cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in single portions.
Freeze before baking by assembling the casserole, covering tightly, and storing up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain well before adding to the casserole.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
Panko, crushed cornflakes, or even seasoned breadcrumbs work as a topping.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, just swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup.
Why add eggs to the casserole?
They help bind the filling and give it structure, making it creamy but not runny.
How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
Add the crackers right before baking, not earlier.
Final Thoughts
This broccoli cheese casserole is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy.
It’s an easy, family-friendly recipe that never fails to please, whether served at a holiday table or on a busy weeknight.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8x8-inch casserole dish.
- Steam broccoli 5 minutes until tender.
- Chop into bite-size pieces and place in a bowl.
- Add soup, mayonnaise, butter, eggs, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in 3/4 cup cheddar cheese.
- Pour mixture into prepared dish.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/broccoli-cheese-casserole-recipe/
Notes
- Greek yogurt makes it lighter while still creamy.
- For a vegetarian version, swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom.
- Great make-ahead dish—assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.