Broccoli Cheddar Casserole

Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this classic Broccoli Casserole. This dish brings together tender, vibrant broccoli florets enveloped in a luxuriously creamy and sharp cheddar cheese sauce. The real star, however, is the irresistible topping: a golden, buttery blanket of crushed Ritz crackers that adds the perfect crunch to every bite. It's a simple, heartwarming side dish that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully decadent, perfect for gathering the family around the dinner table.

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This casserole is a testament to how a few simple, quality ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. It's a versatile side that shines at holiday feasts alongside a roasted turkey, but it's also easy enough for a weeknight meal when you're craving a touch of comfort. The combination of textures and savory flavors makes it a timeless classic that never fails to please.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 5 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, about 2 medium heads)
• Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Topping: 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 4

Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.

Step 5

Cook, whisking, until sauce thickens, 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 6

Combine broccoli and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing gently to coat. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 7

In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 8

Bake for 25–30 minutes, until topping is golden brown and casserole is bubbling.

Step 9

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a subtle kick and deeper flavor profile, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce along with the salt and pepper. This small addition enhances the richness of the cheddar without making the dish spicy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to customize this casserole. Swap the sharp cheddar for Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a nuttier, more complex flavor. To transform this side into a hearty main course, simply stir in some cooked, diced chicken along with the broccoli.

Serviervorschläge

This comforting casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork. For a beverage pairing, a crisp Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce, while a light-bodied red wine also works well.

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Once baked to bubbly, golden-brown perfection, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to set up slightly, making it easier to serve. Each spoonful delivers a perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy broccoli and a buttery, crunchy topping. Enjoy this ultimate comfort dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping just before baking. You may need to extend baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking cold.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Use thawed frozen broccoli florets and reduce blanching time to 1-2 minutes since they're already partially cooked. Drain thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

→ What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?

Panko breadcrumbs, crushed buttery round crackers, or seasoned stuffing mix work well. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour mixed with melted butter.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until hot, or microwave individual portions in 1-2 minute intervals. The topping may soften but flavor remains excellent.

→ Can I freeze broccoli casserole?

Freezing works best before baking. Assemble the casserole, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add fresh cracker topping, and bake as directed.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Remove the saucepan from heat before adding cheese, and stir gently rather than vigorously. Adding sour cream at the end off the heat also helps stabilize the sauce. Avoid overheating once cheese is incorporated.