There’s something truly special about comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re cozied up on a chilly autumn evening, planning a festive holiday meal, or just craving something creamy and satisfying after a long day, this Creamy Broccoli Casserole hits all the right notes. It’s rich, cheesy, and brimming with flavor — the kind of dish that turns even the pickiest eaters into veggie lovers.
This recipe has been a beloved staple in my family for generations. I remember my grandmother making this every Thanksgiving, the scent of bubbling cheese and buttery crackers wafting from the oven. It wasn’t just a side dish — it was the dish everyone fought over for seconds. Today, I’m sharing this family favorite with you, and I guarantee it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli Casserole
This dish is more than just delicious — it’s practical, versatile, and easy to prepare. Here are a few reasons why this broccoli casserole deserves a spot on your dinner table:
- ✅ Family-friendly: Even kids who normally avoid vegetables love the cheesy, creamy texture.
- ✅ Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake when ready — ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- ✅ Perfect side or main: Pair it with roasted chicken, steak, or even enjoy on its own for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- ✅ Customizable: Add extras like mushrooms, cooked rice, or grilled chicken for your own twist.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Creamy Broccoli Casserole
This recipe uses simple pantry and freezer staples, making it both budget-friendly and convenient.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package frozen broccoli
(Cooked and well-drained; use fresh broccoli florets if preferred) - 1 (6-ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
(You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of chicken if desired) - 1 cup mayonnaise
(Adds rich creaminess; use full-fat for best results) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
(Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix cheeses) - 2 eggs, lightly beaten
(Helps bind everything together) - ½ cup cheese crackers, crushed
(Like Cheez-Its or Goldfish for a cheesy, crunchy topping) - 1–2 tablespoons instant minced onion or onion powder
(Adds depth of flavor without the bite of raw onions)
Topping:
- 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted
- ½ cup crushed cheese crackers (combined with butter)
Pro Tip: Want a spicier version? Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture!
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Broccoli Casserole
Making this cheesy broccoli casserole is incredibly easy — even beginner cooks can pull it off with confidence.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 1.5-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Prepare the frozen broccoli according to the package directions (usually by boiling or steaming).
- Drain thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from thinning the casserole.
Note: Excess water can make the casserole soggy, so be sure your broccoli is well-drained.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Condensed cream of celery soup
- Mayonnaise
- Lightly beaten eggs
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Minced onion or onion powder
Stir until well blended, then gently fold in the cooked broccoli.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the broccoli mixture into your greased baking dish.
- Spread evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, melt the butter.
- Stir in the crushed cheese crackers to coat them thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
Optional Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Broccoli Casserole?
This casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish or make it the star of the meal with these pairings:
- 🍗 Roast chicken or turkey
- 🥩 Grilled steak or pork chops
- 🍞 Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- 🥗 Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- 🍷 White wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
Looking for a meatless meal? Serve this with rice or quinoa and a side of sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! This dish is a dream for meal planning:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the entire casserole (including the topping), cover with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer Friendly: Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as usual.
How to Store Leftovers:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Reheating Tip: To keep the topping crispy, reheat uncovered in the oven rather than microwaving.
Customization Ideas: Make It Your Own
This recipe is delicious as-is, but it’s also a great base for creative twists:
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, ham, or turkey for a heartier dish.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, sautéed onions, or red bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
- Lower Carb Version: Replace the cracker topping with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly option.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan mayo alternatives for a plant-based version.
Why This Casserole Works: The Science of Comfort Food
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and here’s why this one stands out:
- Creamy Texture: The mayo and eggs bind the ingredients while providing richness.
- Cheesy Goodness: Cheddar cheese offers bold flavor and a gooey texture when melted.
- Savory Depth: Onion powder or minced onion adds umami notes that round out the taste.
- Crunchy Contrast: The buttery cracker topping provides essential texture contrast — soft meets crispy.
Together, these elements create a balanced, crave-worthy dish that satisfies every bite.
Common Questions About Broccoli Casserole
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Steam or blanch fresh broccoli florets until just tender before mixing them into the casserole. Make sure to dry them well.
Is it okay to substitute cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely. Either works well — cream of mushroom adds an earthy richness, while cream of chicken provides a more savory depth.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just use a larger baking dish (like a 9×13-inch) and increase baking time by 10–15 minutes, checking for doneness.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Recipe That Never Fails
There’s a reason this Creamy Broccoli Casserole has stood the test of time. It’s comforting, flavorful, endlessly adaptable, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re making a holiday feast, prepping meals for the week, or just looking for a way to sneak more veggies into your family’s diet, this casserole delivers.
Don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most requested dishes — it’s just that good. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the magic begin.