Zesty, cheesy, and utterly comforting, this broccoli and cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is the dish your weeknights have been missing. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you just need a hug in food form, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy soup creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every piece of broccoli.
- Ritz crackers add a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy filling.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main or a side, making it perfect for any occasion.
- With only a handful of ingredients, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, even on busy nights.
- The recipe is easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that golden top we all love. While the oven heats, lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creates the base of your casserole’s sauce. For an extra creamy texture, you can use half-and-half instead of milk.
Combine Broccoli and Cheese
Add the broccoli florets and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture, stirring until everything is well coated. The cheese will melt as the casserole bakes, enveloping the broccoli in cheesy goodness.
Top with Crackers
Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture to your prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The butter helps the crackers brown and crisp up in the oven.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly around the edges. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more flavorful casserole, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce mixture. If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli florets can be used in place of fresh—just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid a watery casserole. For a lighter version, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a reduced-fat version and use low-fat cheese. Don’t skip the step of letting the casserole rest before serving; it makes a big difference in the texture. Finally, for an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the broccoli for cauliflower or a mix of both for a different veggie twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to change up the flavor profile.
- Add cooked, diced chicken or ham to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Replace the Ritz crackers with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to account for the chill.
Can I freeze broccoli and cheese casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Bake it as directed, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad and some crusty bread.
Summary
This broccoli and cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is a creamy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.