Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food with our incredible Easy Broccoli Casserole Recipe! This dish isn’t just fantastic; it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking a delicious, no-fuss side that perfectly complements any meal. Featuring tender frozen broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and crowned with irresistible French fried onions, this casserole promises a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

Whether you’re planning a festive holiday feast or simply need a reliable, flavorful vegetable side dish for a busy weeknight, this broccoli casserole ticks all the boxes. Its simplicity is truly its superpower – requiring just a few staple ingredients and minimal prep time, it frees you up to focus on other tasks while still delivering a homemade taste that feels special. In today’s fast-paced world, finding recipes that are both quick to prepare and universally loved is a true culinary victory, and this cheesy broccoli bake is precisely that.

Life can be undeniably hectic, filled with daily responsibilities, work, and family commitments. Add holiday preparations into the mix, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where this recipe shines, offering a comforting and satisfying dish without adding to your stress. Imagine pairing this creamy broccoli and cheese casserole with a roasted chicken and fluffy rice for a comforting family dinner, or serving it alongside your holiday turkey for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing addition to the spread.

For those guests who might not be fans of the traditional green bean casserole, this easy broccoli casserole presents a wonderful and equally comforting alternative. Its rich, cheesy base and crunchy topping offer a familiar appeal with a fresh twist, ensuring there’s a delicious option for every palate at your table. This dish is designed to bring smiles and warmth to your dining table, making it an indispensable part of your recipe repertoire.

Essential Ingredients for Your Broccoli Casserole

Crafting this epic broccoli casserole requires a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting classic, along with some helpful tips for each component:

• Frozen Broccoli Florets: We primarily recommend using frozen broccoli for its incredible convenience. It comes pre-cut and is often flash-frozen at peak freshness, making it a reliable and nutritious choice to keep on hand. If you prefer to use fresh broccoli, ensure you steam or blanch it until it’s tender-crisp before incorporating it into the recipe. This preliminary step prevents the broccoli from being too firm after baking and guarantees a perfectly cooked, tender texture. Most importantly, remember to drain the cooked broccoli thoroughly to prevent any excess moisture from making your casserole watery.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This forms the rich, creamy, and savory base of our casserole sauce. It adds a delightful depth of umami flavor and contributes to a wonderfully smooth texture. For a slight variation or to cater to different tastes, you can easily substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Whether you opt for your favorite store-bought brand or a homemade version, it will provide that essential creaminess.
• Sour Cream: Incorporating sour cream into the mix introduces a pleasant tang and an additional layer of richness, significantly enhancing the luxurious creaminess of the sauce. For those looking for a lighter alternative, plain Greek yogurt can be used, although it might introduce a slightly different flavor profile and consistency.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: We highly recommend sharp cheddar cheese for its robust, bold flavor that beautifully complements the mildness of the broccoli and the richness of the creamy sauce. However, this recipe is incredibly flexible – feel free to use your favorite shredded cheese! Colby, Monterey Jack, a Mexican blend, or even a sophisticated Gruyère would all melt wonderfully and add their unique character. For the best melt and most authentic flavor, we suggest shredding cheese fresh from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties.
• French-Fried Onions: These crispy morsels are the secret weapon that delivers that irresistible crunchy topping! Their savory, crispy texture provides a perfect contrast to the soft broccoli and smooth, creamy sauce. If French fried onions aren’t your preference or readily available, fear not! You can easily swap them out for crushed Ritz crackers mixed with a tablespoon or two of melted butter, or even seasoned breadcrumbs (like Panko) tossed in butter for a different, yet equally satisfying, crunch.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for enhancing all the flavors in the casserole. Always adjust the amounts to your personal taste preference after tasting the sauce mixture.

Optional Customizations and Flavor Enhancements

This broccoli casserole recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt from a simple side dish to a hearty main meal or to suit various dietary preferences. Here are some of our favorite ways to customize it:

• Add Rice for a Fuller Meal: To transform this comforting side into a more substantial dish, consider stirring in 1 to 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice before baking. This creates a complete and satisfying casserole meal, perfect for a busy family dinner where you need something quick and filling.
• Mix in Other Vegetables: Experiment with a delightful blend of vegetables! This recipe works beautifully with a mix of cauliflower and broccoli, or you can even substitute cauliflower entirely for the broccoli. Other vibrant additions like sliced carrots, diced bell peppers, or even frozen mixed vegetables can add extra color, nutrients, and flavor.
• Incorporate Protein: To elevate this dish to a robust main course, adding cooked protein is a fantastic idea. Shredded or diced cooked chicken (about ½ to 1 cup) is a superb choice. Leftover diced turkey from a holiday meal also works wonderfully, making this a smart and delicious way to repurpose leftovers. Cooked ham pieces or even crispy, crumbled bacon can also be delicious and savory additions.
• Boost the Flavor with Spices: While simple, this casserole benefits greatly from a touch of extra seasoning. A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, a dash of paprika for color and mild spice, or even a pinch of dry mustard powder can significantly elevate the flavor profile, adding more complexity to the creamy base.
• Alternative Crunchy Toppings: If French fried onions aren’t available or simply not your preference, there are many other excellent crunchy options. Crushed buttery crackers, such as Ritz crackers, mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter provide a rich, salty crunch. Panko breadcrumbs tossed with a little olive oil or melted butter also create a wonderfully crisp and golden-brown topping. Crushed potato chips can even add a unique, savory crispness.

Equipment You’ll Need

Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need for this broccoli casserole:

• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring consistent and delicious results every time you make the casserole.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for comfortably combining the creamy sauce ingredients and gently folding in the broccoli florets before transferring them to the baking dish. While you can mix in a large sauté pan, a dedicated mixing bowl often provides more space and ease for thorough mixing.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce ingredients over heat and gently folding in the cooked broccoli without crushing the tender florets.
• 8×8 Inch Baking Dish (or 2-Quart Casserole Dish): This size is perfectly suited for the recipe as written, typically yielding 6 satisfying servings. A deep dish is preferable to comfortably hold all the ingredients and the luscious cream sauce without overflowing during baking. For those planning a larger meal or doubling the recipe, a 9×13 inch (3-quart) casserole dish would be the ideal choice.
• Heat-Resistant Potholders or Oven Mitts: Always prioritize safety in the kitchen. Use reliable, high-quality protection when handling hot dishes and pans to prevent burns and ensure a safe cooking experience.

How to Make the Best Easy Broccoli Casserole

This recipe is specifically designed for simplicity, ensuring a delicious outcome with minimal effort, even for novice cooks. Follow these straightforward steps to create your perfect cheesy broccoli casserole:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This crucial first step ensures the casserole bakes evenly from the moment it enters the oven, leading to perfectly cooked results.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large sauté pan (if cooking over heat) or a sturdy mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of the French fried onions. If using a pan, cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until all ingredients are well combined and heated through, forming a smooth, cohesive sauce. If using a bowl, simply stir thoroughly until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Cook and Drain Broccoli: While the creamy sauce is coming together, cook your frozen broccoli florets according to the package directions until they are tender-crisp. It is absolutely crucial to drain the cooked broccoli very thoroughly to prevent any excess moisture from making your casserole watery. You can even press out any extra water using a paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth for best results.



4. Combine Broccoli with Sauce: Once the broccoli is cooked and exceptionally well-drained, add it directly into your creamy cheese mixture. Stir gently until all the broccoli florets are evenly coated with the rich and savory sauce. This ensures that every single bite is bursting with flavor and creaminess.



5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease your 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent any sticking during baking and for easy cleanup. Pour the broccoli and sauce mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer that will cook consistently.



6. Initial Bake: Place the uncovered casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. This initial baking period allows the casserole to heat through thoroughly and for all the delightful flavors to meld beautifully together.
7. Add Final Topping: Carefully remove the partially baked casserole from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining French fried onions over the top of the creamy broccoli mixture.



8. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted, golden, and bubbly, and the French fried onions are beautifully golden brown and crispy.



9. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve clean portions. Then, dive in and enjoy your delicious, homemade broccoli casserole!

Preparation, Storage, and Reheating Tips

Efficient meal planning and proper storage can make enjoying this broccoli casserole even easier, whether you’re preparing for a holiday or simply want a quick meal during the week:

• Make Ahead: This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for busy hosts or meal prepping. You can assemble the entire casserole, combining the sauce and broccoli in the baking dish, up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to exclude the final topping of cheese and French fried onions for now. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while your oven preheats, then add the topping and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through evenly.
• Storage/Leftovers: Store any leftover broccoli casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out, ensuring you can enjoy its deliciousness for days.
• Freezing Instructions: If you’re looking to extend the life of this casserole even further, it freezes beautifully. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe, airtight container or wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• How to Reheat:
  • From the Refrigerator: For individual servings, reheat in the microwave until warm and bubbly. For a crispier topping on a larger portion, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, covering with foil if the topping begins to brown too quickly.
  • From the Freezer: For the best results, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until thoroughly heated, ensuring it’s covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also reheat directly from frozen in the oven at a lower temperature (e.g., 275°F/135°C) for a longer period, but be sure to keep it covered to prevent drying out.

Recipe Variations and Dietary Accommodations

Adapt this versatile broccoli casserole to fit your unique tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy a comforting dish:

• Substitutions for Soup and Cheese: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavors! Try different varieties of condensed cream soup like cream of celery for a subtle vegetal note, or even a sharp cheddar soup for an extra cheesy kick. As for cheese, a blend of Gruyère and Parmesan can create a more sophisticated and nutty flavor profile, or a mild Colby Jack cheese for a less intense cheddar taste that still melts beautifully.
• Vegetarian Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian as written! It’s a wonderful meat-free side dish that’s packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients, making it a perfect option for any vegetarian guests or family members.
• Vegan Option: To make this casserole entirely vegan, you’ll need to swap out the dairy-based ingredients for their plant-based alternatives. Many brands now offer delicious vegan cream of mushroom soup, sour cream substitutes, and shredded cheddar-style cheeses that melt well and provide a similar taste and texture. Always ensure all substitutions are clearly certified vegan to meet dietary requirements.
• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, the primary concern is the cream of mushroom soup, as some condensed soups contain wheat thickeners. Ensure that your chosen brand of cream of mushroom soup is clearly labeled gluten-free. Most other ingredients, like broccoli, sour cream, and cheese, are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always wise to check labels for any hidden gluten, especially if preparing for someone with a severe allergy. If using an alternative topping like breadcrumbs, opt for certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Adjusting Serving Sizes: This recipe typically yields 6 generous servings. If you need a smaller serving size, you can easily halve all the ingredients and bake in a smaller dish, such as a 6×6 inch square pan. For larger groups or holiday gatherings, simply double the recipe. When doubling, use a larger 9×13 inch casserole dish to accommodate the increased volume. Remember to adjust baking times accordingly – smaller portions might cook faster, and larger, doubled portions will likely require a longer baking time to heat through completely.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Broccoli Casserole

Achieve casserole perfection every time with these helpful hints and tricks:

• Preventing Over-Browning: The French fried onions and cheese on top can sometimes brown quickly in the oven. If you notice the topping starting to get too dark before the casserole is fully heated through or the cheese is perfectly melted, simply create a loose “tent” with aluminum foil and place it over the baking dish. This will shield the top, allowing the rest of the casserole to continue baking without burning the topping.
• Doubling the Recipe: Planning for a large gathering or want to ensure you have leftovers? This recipe easily doubles! When preparing a double batch, be sure to use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch casserole dish, or divide the mixture evenly between two 8×8 inch dishes. Remember that a larger volume of food will generally require a longer baking time, so adjust accordingly and check for doneness.
• Thoroughly Drain Broccoli: This cannot be stressed enough for a perfect casserole! Excess water from the cooked broccoli is the most common culprit for a runny, less flavorful casserole. After cooking, let the broccoli drain exceptionally well in a colander, perhaps even pressing it gently with the back of a spoon or a clean kitchen towel to remove any lingering moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the cooked broccoli florets with the creamy sauce, stir just enough to ensure all the florets are evenly coated. Overmixing can cause the broccoli to break down and become mushy, compromising the desired texture of the casserole. Gentle folding is key.

This recipe is a proud addition to our cream cheese recipes collection, highlighting how versatile creamy bases can be in comforting dishes!

Please note: Nutritional information, including calories, protein, calcium, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin C, potassium, cholesterol, sodium, trans fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and more, will vary depending on the specific products and brands used in your preparation. For precise dietary information, it is recommended to calculate based on the exact ingredients you use.

What to Serve with Broccoli Casserole

This versatile broccoli casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes and other sides, making it a fantastic and adaptable addition to almost any meal, from casual weeknights to festive celebrations. Here are some ideal suggestions:

Complementary Side Dishes:

• Rice: A simple bowl of fluffy white or brown rice is a classic and satisfying pairing, perfect for soaking up the creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing and healthy contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Sweet Bread Rolls: Soft, slightly sweet dinner rolls or biscuits are ideal for scooping up any leftover sauce or complementing the savory flavors of the casserole.
• Roasted Potatoes: Another comforting and hearty starch, roasted potatoes or a simple baked potato add substantiality to the meal.
• Corn on the Cob: During warmer months, fresh corn on the cob provides a sweet and crunchy balance.

Perfect Entrée/Main Dishes:

• Roasted Chicken or Turkey: The savory and often herbaceous flavors of roasted poultry are a natural and traditional match for this creamy vegetable side, especially for holiday dinners.
• Beef or Pork Roasts: Whether it’s a tender pot roast, a succulent pork loin, or a juicy beef tenderloin, this casserole is a wonderful and comforting accompaniment.
• Cheeseburger Pie: For a fun, family-friendly dinner, this casserole can beautifully balance the savory richness of a cheeseburger pie, adding a much-needed vegetable component.
• Stovetop Meatloaf: A classic American comfort food main that pairs perfectly with this homey and satisfying side dish.
• Dr. Pepper Ribs: The sweet and tangy notes of slow-cooked, tender ribs would be wonderfully offset by the creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors of the casserole.
• Baked Ham: Especially during holidays like Easter or Christmas, this casserole is a fantastic and vibrant pairing with a sweet or savory glazed baked ham.

Delightful Desserts to Follow:

• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a perfect palate cleanser after the rich and creamy casserole.
• Chocolate Cake or Brownies: For those who love a decadent and indulgent end to a meal, a rich chocolate cake or warm brownies always satisfy.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Simple, classic, and always a hit, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a universally loved dessert.
• Apple Pie: A warm slice of apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a quintessential comfort food dessert, completing a hearty meal.

When to Serve This Delicious Casserole

This easy broccoli casserole is so versatile and universally loved that it fits perfectly into a wide array of occasions throughout the year, making it a go-to recipe for many situations:

• Family Dinner: Elevate your everyday weeknight meal with this comforting, simple, and vegetable-packed side dish that even picky eaters often enjoy.
• Thanksgiving Dinner: A fantastic and flavorful alternative or a welcome addition to the traditional green bean casserole, offering a fresh vegetable option for your holiday spread.
• Christmas Dinner: Its vibrant green color and festive appeal make it a wonderful and cheerful dish to include in your holiday spread, complementing other rich flavors.
• Potlucks: Easy to prepare, transport, and always a crowd-pleaser, this casserole is an ideal dish to bring to any communal gathering or potluck event.
• Holiday Gatherings: From Easter brunch to New Year’s Eve celebrations, it’s a reliable and popular dish that caters to many different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Brunch: A savory and hearty addition to a larger brunch spread, particularly excellent alongside egg dishes, quiches, or ham.
• Church Dinners: Simple to prepare in bulk quantities and appeals to a wide audience, making it a great choice for community meals.
• Sloppy Joe Side Dish: Provides a creamy, cheesy, and slightly crunchy counterpoint to the savory, saucy goodness of Sloppy Joes, balancing the meal.
• Easy Vegetable Casserole Recipe: A go-to recipe for when you need a hearty, vegetable-rich dish that comes together quickly and requires minimal fuss.

Other Delicious Side Dish Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed the simplicity, comfort, and delicious flavor of this easy broccoli casserole, you’ll surely appreciate these other fantastic side dish ideas from our collection:

• Apple Stuffing Recipe: This is our best semi-homemade stuffing recipe, wonderfully enhanced with the sweet and tart flavors of apples. It’s incredibly easy to make and is a perfect pairing for any holiday meal, especially Thanksgiving.
• Hasselback Potatoes: These elegantly thinly sliced potatoes are baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, generously packed with cheese and bacon. They taste absolutely amazing and make for an impressive side dish.
• Cheesy Green Beans: A creamy and incredibly cheesy green bean dish that takes just minutes to prep and tastes absolutely delicious. It’s another quick and comforting vegetable side option.
• Cornbread with Sour Cream: This recipe offers an upgraded version of classic cornbread, enhanced with the epic moistness and tang of sour cream for an unforgettable flavor and texture.
• Cranberry Salsa: A fun and vibrant twist on classic salsa, this recipe uses fresh cranberries to create a festive and flavorful dip or topping, perfect for holiday appetizers.

For more culinary inspiration and to discover new favorites, explore our extensive collection of copycat recipes, delightful dessert recipes, and convenient CrockPot recipes, perfect for any occasion and cooking style.

Broccoli Casserole Recipe

An incredibly easy and delicious broccoli casserole recipe featuring tender broccoli, a rich melted cheese sauce, and a crispy French fried onion topping. Perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 6

Calories: 309 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 32 Ounce frozen broccoli florets
• 10.75 Ounce Cream of Mushroom Soup (condensed)
• 8 Ounce Sour Cream (1 cup)
• 8 Ounce Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
• 6 Ounce French’s French Fried Onions (divided)
• Salt and black pepper to taste (optional, adjust after tasting)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large pan over medium heat (or a mixing bowl), combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of French fried onions. Stir together until heated through and well mixed, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
3. Cook frozen broccoli according to package instructions until tender-crisp. Drain very well, pressing out any excess water.
4. Add the drained broccoli into the cream of mushroom soup mixture. Stir gently until all florets are well coated.
5. Pour the broccoli mixture into a lightly greased 8×8 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
6. Remove the casserole from the oven. Evenly spread the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and French fried onions over the top.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the French fried onions are golden and crispy.
8. Let stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Kitchen Tools

• 8×8 Inch Baking Dish
• Large Sauté Pan or Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts

Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Amount Per Serving

Calories 309 | Calories from Fat 198

% Daily Value*

Fat 22g 34%

Saturated Fat 11g 69%

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 5g

Cholesterol 62mg 21%

Sodium 477mg 21%

Potassium 874mg 25%

Carbohydrates 17g 6%

Fiber 4g 17%

Sugar 5g 6%

Protein 15g 30%

Vitamin A 1556IU 31%

Vitamin C 135mg 164%

Calcium 418mg 42%

Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.