This easy broccoli and cheese casserole is a comforting family favorite that goes from the oven to the table in 30 minutes.
This tasty broccoli bake is made with broccoli florets and loads of melty cheese baked under a crispy, cheesy cracker topping.
Make This Easy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Because…
- It has a creamy, cheesy, rich flavor that is hard to resist.
- The topping is crispy and crunchy with a hint of saltiness.
- It’s a comforting and indulgent dish.
- Broccoli and cheese casserole can be made up to a day ahead. Just chill and bake when ready.
Ingredients
Broccoli: Use fresh or frozen broccoli florets. Be sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces for easier eating. Use half broccoli and half cauliflower for a more colorful dish.
Cheese: Velveeta processed cheese melts fast and evenly, making this recipe come together quickly! Stock up when it’s on sale for last-minute cheesy recipes like hot dog mac and cheese and a cheesy ground beef skillet.
Topping: Use any crackers you like, Ritz or Saltines variety, or seasoned breadcrumb, and no need to buy the name brand. Make a low-carb topping using crushed pork rinds.
Variations: Use leftover meat like chicken, ground beef, or ham. Mix in a bag of mixed veggies like peas and carrots, peppers and onions, or corn and green beans.
How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
- Prepare the topping and set aside (recipe below).
- Blanch and drain broccoli. Place in a casserole dish.
- Melt cheese loaf in the pot and pour over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle topping over the casserole and bake until hot and bubbly.
Helpful Hints
- Grate cheddar from a block of cheese rather than use a package of shredded if time permits. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well due to the anti-caking agents used in making it.
- Be sure florets (fresh or frozen) are dry before using to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
Serving and Storage Solutions
Keep leftover broccoli and cheese casserole in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave.
Freeze portions in zippered bags for up to one month. Once thawed, add fresh broccoli or other desired add-ins.
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Easy Broccoli And Cheese Casserole
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- ¾ pound processed cheese loaf such as Velveeta
Topping
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup buttery crackers crushed, such as Ritz
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine topping ingredients and set aside.
- Place broccoli in boiling water and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes for fresh or 3 minutes for frozen. Drain very well. Place broccoli in a 2½ – 3 quart casserole dish.
- Add the cheese loaf to the pot where the broccoli was cooked, and melt over medium heat. Pour melted cheese evenly over broccoli.
- Spread the topping ingredients over top of the broccoli and cheese.
- Bake 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Notes
- Use frozen broccoli florets to save time!
- Cheese loaf can also be melted in the microwave if desired. Use 30 second intervals and stir until smooth.
- Prep everything in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Top with the cheese cracker crumb topping and bake!
- Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions in zippered bags for up to 4 weeks.
- Microwave portions to reheat as needed.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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