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Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole

Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole
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This Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish featuring tender broccoli florets blended with sharp cheddar cheese and a rich cream of mushroom sauce, topped with a golden, crunchy cracker crust. Perfect for family dinners, it combines effortless preparation with rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

Dairy & Dairy Alternatives

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

Pantry

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 to 1½ cups crushed crackers (saltines or Ritz preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender but still bright green, to retain texture and prevent sogginess in the casserole.
  2. Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully blended to form a smooth cheese mixture.
  3. Combine broccoli and cheese mixture: Gently fold the prepared broccoli into the cheese mixture, ensuring all florets are well coated with the creamy sauce for even flavor in every bite.
  4. Prepare the cracker topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter, stirring until the crackers are evenly coated for a rich, crispy topping.
  5. Assemble and bake: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli for best texture and flavor, avoiding frozen when possible.
  • Do not overcook broccoli during steaming or blanching to keep a slight firmness after baking.
  • Shred cheese yourself to improve melting and reduce additives from pre-shredded cheese.
  • Fully coat crackers with melted butter to ensure a crunchy, golden topping.
  • Allow casserole to rest a few minutes after baking to set before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheese casserole, comfort food, easy dinner recipe, cheesy broccoli bake

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/broccoli-cheese-cracker-casserole/