Easy Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole Recipe

Discover a quick, cheesy comfort meal with this Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole recipe that brings together the perfect blend of tender broccoli, rich cheese, and crunchy crackers in one hearty dish. Ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners, this casserole is both simple to make and irresistibly delicious, offering a delightful twist on traditional comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together fast, making it perfect for hectic evenings when time is limited.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy flavors and crunchy topping appeal to all ages, making mealtime a breeze.
• Comfort in Every Bite: Warm, creamy, and loaded with fresh broccoli, it’s the ultimate cozy dinner option.
• Versatile Ingredients: Uses common kitchen staples, so you likely already have everything on hand.
• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser that gets rave reviews every time it hits the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to building layers of flavor and texture in the Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole. Each component plays a vital role—from the creamy cheese sauce to the crispy cracker topping—ensuring every spoonful hits the perfect note.

• Fresh Broccoli: Provides vibrant color, crunch, and a nutritious boost to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds rich, savory flavor and melts beautifully throughout the casserole.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as a creamy base to bind all ingredients together smoothly.
• Crushed Cheese Crackers: Creates a satisfyingly crispy and flavorful topping.
• Milk: Enhances creaminess in the casserole’s sauce without overpowering other flavors.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect golden crust with the cracker topping.
• Onion Powder: Provides a subtle depth of flavor, elevating the overall taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight the natural tastes of the ingredients.

Variations for Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole

This Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to switch up ingredients or add extras to fit your dietary needs and flavor preferences with ease.

• Swap the Broccoli: Use cauliflower or a mix of your favorite veggies for a different twist.
• Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for varying flavors and meltiness.
• Gluten-Free Crackers: Use gluten-free cheese crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions without losing crunch.
• Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken or bacon bits for a heartier meal.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cream of mushroom soup and cheese with plant-based alternatives for lactose intolerance.

How to Make Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by steaming or blanching fresh broccoli florets until just tender. This ensures the broccoli remains vibrant and slightly crisp in the casserole rather than turning mushy.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until you have a smooth, cheesy mixture perfect for coating the broccoli.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, mix the cooked broccoli with the cheese sauce until thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture evenly into the dish to prepare for the cracker topping.

Step 4: Add the Cracker Topping

Crush the cheese crackers finely and mix them with melted butter. Sprinkle this evenly over the broccoli and cheese mixture to create a golden, crunchy crust during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is beautifully browned.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli tastes better and holds its texture better than frozen.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Slightly undercook the broccoli so it retains a slight crunch after baking.
• Cracker Crust Tips: Mix crackers with melted butter for an even, crispy topping that won’t burn.
• Cheese Quality Matters: Choose full-flavored cheddar for the richest taste.
• Stir Gently: When combining broccoli and sauce, stir carefully to avoid breaking up the florets too much.

How to Serve Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top after baking to add a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes for a well-rounded meal that satisfies.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake the casserole in a large decorative dish for a cozy, family-style presentation that invites sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness and flavor retention.

Freezing

To freeze, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and the topping regains its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in this casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the sauce to prevent a soggy casserole.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian if you use vegetarian cream of mushroom soup and avoid adding meat-based extras like bacon.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can make a simple homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings to keep the dish creamy without canned soup.

How do I make the cracker topping extra crunchy?

Make sure to mix the crushed crackers with melted butter evenly and avoid overcrowding the topping during baking to achieve maximum crunchiness.

Can this casserole be made dairy-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and a dairy-free creamy soup alternative, you can easily create a lactose-free version of this comforting dish.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of this Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole is a warm hug on a plate—rich, cheesy, and with just the right crunch. It’s one of those recipes that quickly becomes a staple in the kitchen because it’s so reliable and delicious. So, grab your ingredients and whip up this joyful dish for your next family dinner—you won’t regret it!

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