This Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or Sunday dinners. Made with tender broccoli, a creamy cheese sauce, and topped with buttery cracker crumbs, it’s a nostalgic recipe that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or as a weeknight side, this easy casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Casserole
- Holiday classic – perfect for Thanksgiving & Christmas tables
- Family-friendly – even picky eaters enjoy it
- Simple ingredients – budget-friendly and easy to find
- Make-ahead option – saves time for busy holiday cooking
Variations & Add-Ins
- Broccoli Rice Casserole – stir in 2 cups cooked rice before baking
- Cheesy Twist – double the cheddar for extra gooeyness
- Protein Boost – add shredded chicken or ham for a hearty main dish
- Spicy Kick – sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños
Serving Ideas & Pairings
- Serve with roast turkey, ham, or chicken for holiday meals
- Pair with mashed potatoes, corn casserole, and green bean casserole for a Southern-style spread
- Enjoy as a weeknight side with skillet chicken or pork chops
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and drain well before mixing into the casserole.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — assemble up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
3. Can I freeze broccoli casserole?
Yes, but bake without the cracker topping, cool completely, wrap well, and freeze up to 2 months. Add topping and reheat before serving.
4. How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake uncovered and serve immediately for the crunchiest topping.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger casserole dish or two 9×13 pans.
Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven – Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare broccoli – Blanch fresh broccoli in boiling water for 2–3 minutes (skip if using thawed frozen). Drain well.
- Mix filling – In a large bowl, stir together cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise (or sour cream), eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine – Fold in broccoli florets until evenly coated. Transfer mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Add topping – In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake – Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and casserole is bubbly.
- Serve – Let rest 5 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
- Make ahead: Assemble casserole without topping, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add topping just before baking.
- Cheese options: Try Colby Jack, Gruyere, or mozzarella for different flavors.
- Topping swap: Use panko breadcrumbs or French fried onions instead of crackers.
- Vegetarian option: Use cream of mushroom soup + veggie broth base.
