Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole
Broccoli & Cheese Cracker Casserole is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish combining tender steamed broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crispy buttery cracker crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make casserole offers a delicious harmony of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures that everyone will love.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cracker Topping
- 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until just tender but still vibrant green to preserve nutrients and texture, providing the perfect base for the casserole.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth, then season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Broccoli and Cheese Sauce: Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce mixture, ensuring every floret is evenly coated to create the creamy casserole filling.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: Finely crush the buttery crackers and mix them with melted butter to form a savory, golden topping that will provide a delightful crunch after baking.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the cracker topping over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture; avoid frozen if possible.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli – it should remain slightly crisp after baking.
- Sharp or aged cheddar cheese enhances the depth of flavor.
- Butter in the cracker topping is crucial for a perfect crispy crust.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before baking to ensure balanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheese casserole, comfort food, broccoli cheese bake, easy casserole, family dinner, cheesy broccoli, cracker topping