Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Name: Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup crushed crackers (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a creamy, cheesy delight with this Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe that’s perfect for dinner gatherings or a cozy family meal. This comforting dish blends tender broccoli with rich cheddar cheese, all baked together for a savory treat that everyone will love. Easy to make in your crockpot, it’s a flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with any protein or can be served as a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-08T15:46:17.936Z

This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing comfort and joy to many dinner tables.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is an excellent choice for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast, a potluck, or a cozy family dinner. Its creamy, cheesy texture pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side dish that complements everything from roasted chicken to grilled steaks. You can also make it the star of your meal by serving it as a hearty vegetarian option.

The casserole not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a pop of color to your plate! The bright green of the broccoli against the golden melted cheese is visually appealing and enticing. This aspect makes it particularly attractive for family meals or when entertaining guests, as it is sure to catch their eye and whet their appetite.

Healthy, Yet Indulgent

While it’s rich and comforting, this casserole also packs in nutrition, particularly thanks to the broccoli. Broccoli is known for being low in calories and high in vitamins such as C and K, not to mention its beneficial antioxidants. By integrating vegetables into such a delicious dish, you can enjoy an indulgent meal that doesn’t compromise on health.

Moreover, the combination of cheese and creamy ingredients adds an element of richness that makes each bite satisfying. This recipe offers a balance of flavors and textures that ensure hearty enjoyment without the guilt. You can easily feel good about serving this casserole while still indulging your cravings.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the best aspects of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can substitute cheddar cheese with a blend of your favorite cheeses to create a unique flavor profile. Add some spice with pepper jack cheese for a little kick, or incorporate different vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for added variety.

Additionally, if you want to keep the dish lighter, you could use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dish to your personal preferences while still retaining its core comforting nature.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup crushed crackers (optional, for topping)

Prepare your ingredients as noted to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your casserole:

Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine with Broccoli

Fold in the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture until well combined.

Transfer to Crockpot

Pour the mixture into your crockpot. If desired, sprinkle the crushed crackers on top for added crunch.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until heated through and bubbly.

Once finished, allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins. Whether you serve it alongside a succulent roasted chicken, juicy steak, or flaky fish, it enhances the meal beautifully. Its creamy texture provides a delightful contrast to grilled or roasted meats, making it a beloved addition to any plate.

For a complete vegetarian experience, consider adding a simple side salad with vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to complement the dish. The freshness of greens can balance out the richness of the casserole, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For the best results, consider covering it with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent it from drying out.

You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage up to three months. Just make sure it's cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it as needed for a quick, comforting meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber essential for a healthy diet. A serving of this casserole offers a hearty portion of broccoli, helping you meet your daily vegetable intake while satisfying your craving for comfort food.

Cheddar cheese, also present in this recipe, is a good source of calcium and protein. While the layers of mayonnaise and sour cream add richness, they can also be balanced with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative, still retaining the delicious creaminess we all love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the recipe.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and then transfer it to the crockpot when you're ready to cook.