Savory Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
This Savory Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is a beloved comfort dish that has graced many family dinners and holiday gatherings. With tender, cooked broccoli combined with a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, and rich cream of mushroom soup, this casserole delivers both flavor and comfort in every bite. The addition of light beaten eggs helps to bind the ingredients together for a perfect texture, while the crushed crackers provide a satisfying crunchy topping. It's a simple yet delicious dish that will steal the show at your next gathering—just like it has for countless others before. Perfect for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners, you'll be sure to impress your guests with this delightful and easy-to-make casserole!
8
Servings
225
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen chopped broccoli
2 (10-ounce packages, cooked and drained)
Mayonnaise
1 (cup)
Sharp cheddar cheese
1 (cup, grated)
Condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 3/4-ounce can)
Eggs
2 (lightly beaten)
Crackers
2 (cups, crushed)
Butter
2 (tablespoons, melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Generously spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained broccoli, mayonnaise, grated sharp cheddar cheese, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and lightly beaten eggs. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4
Transfer the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5
In a separate bowl, crush the crackers until fine and sprinkle them evenly over the broccoli mixture.
6
Drizzle the melted butter over the crushed crackers to add flavor and achieve a golden brown crust.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is browned and bubbly.
8
Let cool slightly before serving to allow the casserole to set up for easier slicing.
Nutrition Information
13.75g
Fat
17.5g
Carbs
4.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Broccoli Cheddar Casserole?
Savory Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is a creamy, comfort-food side dish made with cooked broccoli, sharp cheddar, cream of mushroom soup, and a crunchy cracker topping.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature for this casserole?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What size baking dish is required?
You will need a 13 x 9 inch baking dish.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli as long as it is cooked and drained before being added to the mixture.
How many calories are in one serving of this casserole?
There are approximately 225 calories per serving.
What kind of soup is used in the base?
The recipe calls for one 10 3/4-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetable-based dish, though it does contain eggs and dairy products.
How many eggs are needed for this recipe?
Two eggs, lightly beaten, are required to bind the ingredients together.
What type of cheese provides the best flavor?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its rich and tangy flavor.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
It should bake for approximately 35 minutes until set and bubbly.
What is the cracker topping made of?
The topping consists of 2 cups of crushed crackers drizzled with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 13.75 grams of fat.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 17.5 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides about 4.5 grams of protein.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
While mayonnaise provides creaminess, some cooks substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.
What should I do to prevent the casserole from sticking to the pan?
Generously spray the baking dish with cooking spray before adding the broccoli mixture.
Why should I let the casserole cool before serving?
Letting it cool slightly allows the casserole to set, making it much easier to slice and serve.
Can I use a different type of cream soup?
Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery can be used as alternatives to cream of mushroom.
What kind of crackers are best for the topping?
Buttery round crackers (like Ritz) or saltines work very well for the crunchy topping.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is a very popular dish for holiday gatherings and Thanksgiving dinners.
Do the crackers need to be finely crushed?
The crackers should be crushed until fine to ensure an even coating over the top of the casserole.
Should the broccoli be drained?
Yes, it is important to drain the cooked broccoli thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The casserole is done when it is set in the center and the cracker topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
While this is a vegetable dish, you could add cooked shredded chicken or ham to make it a main course.
How much butter is used for the topping?
Two tablespoons of melted butter are drizzled over the crushed crackers.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the broccoli mixture ahead of time and add the topping just before baking.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
While not specified in the data, broccoli naturally provides dietary fiber.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
There are 7 main ingredients: broccoli, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, mushroom soup, eggs, crackers, and butter.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave.