Okay, friends, let me tell you about a dish that’s been in my family for, well, longer than that. I can remember. Is it my grandma’s famous?What is broccoli casserole?What is the most requested dish at every holiday gathering? What’s a healthy twist on mac and cheese? Is this broccoli florets recipe that you crave? Is it the kind of dish that evokes instant comfort and happy memories, and I’m so excited to share it with you. What is your recipe?
What is broccoli casserole?
What is it?What is broccoli casserole?What is a warm hug in the form of an ice cream? What is a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s generously studded with broccoli? Think of it as a leveled-up mac and cheese, where the broccoli adds texture and flavor. What is healthy goodness? What is a side dish? What can I do on a chilly evening when I just want something warm and cozy? Is it fancy, but it’s absolutely soul-satisfying?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start?What is broccoli casserole?What is more than a recipe, it’s merely ‘a hug in the pan’. What I love about this is how easy it is to throw together. When I’m short on time, this is a lifesaver!
• Flavor:Is the creamy cheesy sauce overpowering? The broccoli provides a lovely counterpoint, adding tad of freshness and earthy note. What’s not to love about fried onions?
• Simplicity:What is the easiest casserole you have ever made? What are some easy ingredients to put in the oven?
• Cost-All the ingredients are pretty budget-friendly. Broccoli is often on sale, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. How do I make a healthy meal without spending 10000?
• Versatility:What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole? I often serve it with roasted chicken, Pork Chops, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich. Can you customize this recipe by adding other vegetables, like mushrooms or cauliflower?
I’ve tried other broccoli casseroles before, but this one is special. Is it because it’s my grandma’s recipe? What are flavors and textures? Is it too rich, not too bland, and just perfectly comforting?
How do I make a Broccoli casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this What is broccoli casserole?Is it a breeze to cook broccoli? What are some good pantry staples to make a creamy cheese sauce? Combine everything together, top with fried onions, and bake until bubbly and golden. What are some ideas for making your own cheese?
Ingredients
For the Casserole: For
• 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (I prefer fresh when it’s in season, but frozen works) Is there a formula that works perfectly in Is it safe to thaw and drain it?
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream from chicken, if you prefer)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives it a nice kick!)
• 12 cup mayonnaise (I swear by Duke’s, but use your favorite!)
• 14 cup milk (any kind works, even almond milk! I’ve tested it, and it’s delicious.)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
• 1 can French fried onions (these are a MUST! Don’t skip them.)
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use cooking spray, but you can also grease it with butter if you prefer. How do you remove a casserole from the oven?
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
How do you steam broccoli florets? I usually steam them for about 5-7 minutes, but you can boil them and eat them. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and salt. Set aside. Milk, onion powder, garlic powder and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is mostly melted. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Sauce
Add the cooked broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Do not overmix broccoli. You don’t want to break it up too much.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
If you have a large baking dish, pour the broccoli mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 6: Add Topping
Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. I sometimes like to crush them with my fingers before sprinkling them on – it makes them soft and smooth. Is there a way to make sand stick better and creates nice, even layer?
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the French fried. Why are onions golden brown? When onions are cooked, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to make sure they don’t burn.
Step 8: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I make sauce thicker? What are some good ways to serve warm and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
This What is broccoli casserole? is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many different dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
• For a Weeknight Dinner: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled pork chops. It’s also a great accompaniment to meatloaf or even a simple veggie burger.
• For a Holiday Feast: This casserole is a classic addition to any holiday table. Serve it with turkey, ham, or prime rib, along with other traditional sides like Mashed Potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• For a Vegetarian Meal: This casserole can be a meal on its own! Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying vegetarian dinner. You can also add other vegetables to the casserole, like mushrooms, cauliflower, or peas.
• For a Potluck or Party: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks and parties. It’s easy to transport and serve, and everyone loves it! Just make sure to keep it warm in a slow cooker or warming tray.
My family has always had this at Thanksgiving, and it just wouldn’t be the same without it! The creamy, cheesy flavor complements the other holiday dishes perfectly. And the crispy fried onions add a touch of sweetness and crunch that everyone loves.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Broccoli Casserole
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this broccoli casserole even better. Here are my top tips:
• Broccoli Prep: Don’t overcook the broccoli! You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked broccoli will make the casserole watery and less appealing. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.
• Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is the classic choice, you can also use other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Each cheese will add a unique flavor to the casserole.
• Mayonnaise Matters: Use a good quality mayonnaise! The mayonnaise adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. I prefer Duke’s, but use your favorite brand. Avoid using low-fat mayonnaise, as it can make the sauce watery.
• Onion Topping: Don’t skimp on the French fried onions! They add a delicious crunch and sweetness to the casserole. Sprinkle them on evenly over the top, and don’t be afraid to use the whole can!
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking! You want the French fried onions to be golden brown, but not burnt. If they start to brown too quickly, you can tent the casserole with foil to prevent them from burning.
• Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup. You can also add other vegetables to the casserole, like mushrooms, cauliflower, or peas. Get creative and make it your own!
I once tried using plain yogurt instead of mayonnaise to lighten it up, and it was a DISASTER! The sauce was thin and tangy, and nobody liked it. Stick with the mayonnaise, trust me!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover broccoli casserole (which is rare!), here’s how to store and reheat it:
• Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it.
• Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating Instructions: To reheat the casserole, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
• Glaze Timing Advice: I would not freeze the casserole with the fried onions. Add them when you are ready to reheat
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This broccoli casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home. It’s the dish that brings my family together, and I hope it does the same for you. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables! If you love this casserole, be sure to check out my other classic comfort food recipes. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!
Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.25 cup butter
- 0.25 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam or boil broccoli until tender-crisp.
- Combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheese, milk, and butter in a greased casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
