Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Rebecca Blumer
Tender blanched broccoli florets are folded into a creamy sharp cheddar and mushroom sauce, topped with crushed cheese crackers, and baked until bubbly and golden brown.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 277 kcal
- 6 cups fresh broccoli florets about 2 bunches
- 10.5 ounce cream of mushroom soup can (or homemade)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 2 Tablespoons dried minced onion
- 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cheese crackers crushed
Heat a large pot of water until it reaches a rolling boil, then add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes. Watch for the florets to turn bright green while still feeling firm at the center.
Drain the broccoli very well in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the creamy mixture. Let steam escape and shake away as much water as possible so the finished casserole stays thick.
Whisk the mushroom soup, mayonnaise, eggs, dried minced onion, and freshly grated cheddar in a large mixing bowl until evenly combined. The sauce should look smooth and creamy, with no visible streaks of egg or pockets of unmixed cheese.
Add the drained broccoli to the bowl and fold until every floret is coated, then transfer the mixture to a greased 2 qt casserole dish or 8-inch dish. Spread the broccoli into an even layer so the center and edges bake at the same pace.
Scatter the crushed cheese crackers evenly over the top and bake uncovered at 400°F for 40 to 45 minutes. The casserole is ready when the edges actively bubble and the cracker crust is deep golden brown.
Texture tip: Drain the blanched broccoli thoroughly and shake out excess moisture so the creamy sauce stays thick and does not separate while baking.
Serving tip: Let the hot casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce settles and clings neatly to the florets.
Reheating: Warm leftovers uncovered in the oven to heat the center while restoring crunch to the cracker crust.
Nutrition information is an estimate based on common ingredients and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on brands, portions, and substitutions.
Keyword broccoli cheese casserole, broccoli side dish, cheddar broccoli casserole