Dreamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe: A Cozy Side Dish Joy

Comfort food reaches new heights with this broccoli cheese casserole that promises to tantalize taste buds.

creamy and indulgent, the dish brings together tender broccoli florets and rich, melted cheese in a harmonious blend.

Each spoonful delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that dance across your palate.

The casserole emerges from the oven bubbling with golden-brown edges and irresistible cheesy goodness.

Packed with wholesome ingredients, this side dish transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Crisp broccoli nestled in a velvety cheese sauce creates a symphony of comfort and nutrition.

You’ll want to savor every delectable bite of this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole—Creamy Side Dish Favorite

• Super simple recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, perfect for beginners or busy home cooks wanting a delicious side dish.
• Creamy, cheesy texture appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks.
• Packed with broccoli and protein-rich cheeses, this casserole offers a healthy twist on a classic comfort food that doesn't compromise on flavor.
• Easily adaptable as a standalone side dish or can complement main courses like roasted chicken, grilled meats, or baked fish.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Ingredients

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that provides the base and primary texture for this comforting casserole.
• Cream Cheese: Adds rich, smooth creaminess and helps bind the casserole together.
• Cheddar Cheese: Brings a sharp, tangy flavor and creates a delicious cheesy topping.

• Sour Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Enhance the creamy texture and add depth of flavor to the casserole.

• Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Provide layers of savory and spicy notes that complement the cheesy broccoli base.

Kitchen Gear for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

• Large skillet: Perfect for boiling and cooking broccoli evenly.
• 2.5 to 3-quart baking dish: Ideal for assembling and baking the casserole.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining cream cheese and other ingredients smoothly.
• Colander: Needed to drain broccoli after cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient proportions.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients.

Making Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Crank up your oven to a toasty 350°F.

Grab a baking dish and give it a generous butter massage to prevent any sticky situations.

Set the dish aside while you work your magic.

Step 2: Blanch Broccoli

Fill a large skillet with about an inch of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil.

Toss in your broccoli and let it dance in the hot water for 3-4 minutes until it’s crisp and vibrant.

Quickly drain the broccoli and transfer it to your waiting baking dish.

Step 3: Whip Up Cheese Mixture

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend these ingredients until they become a smooth, creamy dream.

Step 4: Create Casserole Magic

Pour your dreamy cheese mixture over the broccoli.

Stir everything together until the broccoli is completely coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 17-20 minutes.

You’re looking for a bubbly, golden-brown top that screams “eat me!”

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Pull the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

For an extra kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top.

Dive in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy creation!

Tips for Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

• Quickly boil broccoli for 3-4 minutes to maintain bright green color and crisp-tender texture, preventing overcooking and mushiness.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and mix cheeses thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
• Taste the cheese mixture before adding to broccoli and adjust salt and pepper to enhance overall flavor profile.
• Pat broccoli dry after draining to remove excess moisture and ensure a thick, creamy consistency.
• Sprinkle breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top before baking for a golden, crunchy texture and added flavor dimension.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Options

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace broccoli with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version that maintains the creamy cheese base.
• Vegan Nutritional Cheese Casserole: Substitute dairy with cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and plant-based cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option.
• Mediterranean Herb Upgrade: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and swap parmesan for feta cheese to create a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
• Protein-Packed Green Fusion: Incorporate cooked chicken or tofu cubes into the casserole for added protein and a complete meal option.

Serving Broccoli Cheese Casserole

• Elegant Dinner Partner: Pair this creamy broccoli casserole with roasted chicken or grilled salmon for a complete, balanced meal that elevates your dining experience.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potluck Star: Bring this dish to family gatherings or potlucks, where its rich, comforting flavors will have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe.
• Hearty Lunch Companion: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or crusty bread to transform this side dish into a satisfying vegetarian lunch that feels indulgent yet nutritious.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or planned meals throughout the week.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
• Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent excessive browning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely through, checking temperature periodically.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it completely before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• How do I know if the broccoli is crisp-tender?

Broccoli should be bright green and slightly firm when pierced with a fork. It should not be mushy or too hard.

• What if I don't have Italian seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or use individual herbs you have on hand.

• Is this dish vegetarian?

The recipe contains cheese and dairy, making it vegetarian but not vegan. It’s not suitable for those avoiding dairy products.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Creamy and Delicious Side Dish Recipe

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4.8 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Hearty broccoli cheese casserole delivers comfort on a plate with rich, melted cheese and tender broccoli florets. Homemade warmth invites you to savor each creamy, satisfying spoonful of this classic side dish.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds broccoli florets
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese

Dairy Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated parmesan cheese

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F and coat a medium-sized casserole dish with butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
2. Fill a large skillet with salted water and bring to a rapid boil. Submerge broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green, then drain completely.
3. In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well-blended.
4. Transfer drained broccoli into the prepared baking dish and pour the creamy cheese mixture over the top, gently folding to ensure even distribution and complete coating.
5. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 17-20 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface and bubbling edges that indicate thorough heating.
6. Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, which helps the ingredients settle and makes serving easier. Optionally, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor before presenting.

Notes

• Enhance texture by slightly undercooking broccoli during initial boiling to maintain crisp-tender bite and prevent mushiness during baking.
• Create dairy-free version by substituting cream cheese and sour cream with cashew cream or coconut-based alternatives for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Boost nutrition by adding protein-rich ingredients like diced chicken, cooked bacon bits, or sliced almonds for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
• Customize spice levels by adjusting seasonings like adding red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs to elevate the casserole’s taste profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg