Description
This creamy broccoli casserole is a comforting and cheesy side dish featuring tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich cream of mushroom soup-based sauce, combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, then topped with a crispy buttery cracker crumb topping. Perfect for holidays or a cozy weeknight meal, it offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Seasonings & Toppings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened onions and garlic with the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
- Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Fold the steamed broccoli into the creamy mixture, ensuring the florets are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly to form a smooth layer.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns a golden brown color.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow it to set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup for a different flavor variation.
- For a heartier casserole, add cooked rice or shredded rotisserie chicken to the mixture before baking.
- Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
