If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and family-friendly side dish, you can’t go wrong with a broccoli cheddar casserole.
It’s creamy, flavorful, and a great way to sneak more veggies onto the dinner table.
This classic casserole is perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or potluck parties—and it’s so easy to make, even beginner cooks will feel like pros.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
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Creamy and cheesy – Melted cheddar coats every bite of tender broccoli.
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Versatile – Works as a side or a vegetarian main dish.
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Make-ahead friendly – Assemble it the day before, then bake when ready.
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Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love cheesy broccoli.
Also Check: Easy Made broccoli cheddar rice
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious casserole:
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Fresh broccoli florets (or frozen if you’re short on time)
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Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor
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Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (for creaminess)
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Sour cream
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Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
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Butter
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Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or blanch broccoli florets until they’re just tender but still bright green. Avoid overcooking—this keeps them from getting mushy in the oven.
Affiliate pick:
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OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner – Perfect for quickly drying washed broccoli so the casserole isn’t watery.
2. Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
Affiliate pick:
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KitchenAid Classic Mixing Bowls Set – Sturdy, non-slip mixing bowls that make prep a breeze.
3. Combine and Assemble
Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese mixture, stirring until everything is coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Affiliate pick:
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Casserole Dish with Lid by Lodge – A heavy-duty baking dish that keeps your casserole hot and presentable.
4. Add the Crunchy Topping
Melt butter and mix with crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Affiliate pick:
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Hamilton Beach Electric Can Opener & Food Prep Tool – Handy for quickly opening canned soups and toppings.
5. Bake and Serve
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Serve hot, straight from the dish.
Things to Avoid When Making Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
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Overcooking the broccoli – This can make the casserole watery and mushy.
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Using pre-shredded cheese only – It often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredded works best.
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Skipping the topping – The crunchy layer adds essential texture.
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Adding too much soup – This can make the dish runny instead of creamy.
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Not seasoning enough – Broccoli can be bland without a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Overbaking – The cheese can turn oily and separate.
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Forgetting to drain broccoli well – Extra moisture ruins the texture.
Read More: Manhattan clam chowder recipe
Some FAQs About Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze broccoli cheddar casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely—just steam or microwave it first and drain well.
4. What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives the richest flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Colby Jack.
5. Can I make it without cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, substitute with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce.
6. How do I make it healthier?
Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat breadcrumbs.
7. What can I use instead of crackers for topping?
Breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed cornflakes work great.
8. How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
9. Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Yes—cooked chicken, turkey, or ham make it heartier.
10. What side dishes go well with this?
Mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a fresh garden salad.
Also Check: Homemade clam chowder recipe
Final Thoughts
Broccoli cheddar casserole is the ultimate combination of cheesy indulgence and veggie goodness.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
With the right kitchen tools—from a durable casserole dish to a quality mixing bowl—making this dish is easy, stress-free, and fun.
