Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. While the turkey often takes center stage, it’s the classic sides that truly complete the feast. This year, elevate your holiday spread with our ultimate Broccoli Cheese Casserole. This creamy, cheesy, and undeniably comforting dish is the perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal, promising rave reviews and empty serving dishes. Get ready to discover why this is more than just a side—it’s a star in its own right!
Key Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Crafting the perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole requires a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs fresh broccoli florets: Approximately 2 large heads, cut into bite-sized pieces. Fresh is best for vibrant color and crisp-tender texture, but frozen (thawed and drained) can be used in a pinch.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Divided. This butter forms the base of our rich béchamel sauce and adds flavor to the breadcrumb topping.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce, creating a smooth and luxurious consistency.
- 2 cups whole milk: The liquid base for our creamy sauce. Whole milk contributes to a richer, fuller flavor, but 2% can be substituted.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season the sauce and balance the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground preferred, to add a subtle kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth of the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds another layer of aromatic flavor to the sauce.
- 4 cups (about 16 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Divided. Sharp cheddar provides the quintessential cheesy goodness for this casserole. Pre-shredded works, but freshly shredded melts smoother and has better flavor.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For a crispy, golden topping. Panko provides a lighter, crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Mixed with panko for extra flavor and browning.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe is a true holiday hero, delivering an incredibly delicious and satisfying side dish with minimal fuss. Its genius lies in its simple yet effective components: tender-crisp broccoli bathed in a luscious, homemade cheese sauce, all crowned with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping. You’ll be amazed at how easily this elegant dish comes together in just under 45 minutes of active preparation, making it perfect for your busy Thanksgiving schedule.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain immediately and plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve the vibrant color. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and pat dry. Set aside.
Start the Roux: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. It should be light golden and smell slightly nutty.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add 3 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Combine and Transfer: Gently fold the drained broccoli florets into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, melt the remaining 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated with butter.
Bake: Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole
You’re going to fall head over heels for this Broccoli Cheese Casserole because it perfectly encapsulates everything you want in a comforting side dish. The main highlight is undoubtedly that incredibly creamy, rich cheese sauce blanketing tender-crisp broccoli—it’s pure indulgence in every bite. And let’s be honest, making this at home is a significant cost-saver compared to pre-made versions, allowing you to control the quality of ingredients and savor a truly superior flavor experience without breaking the bank. The golden, buttery panko and Parmesan topping isn’t just for show; it adds an irresistible crunchy contrast to the creamy interior, elevating this casserole from a simple side to a dish you’ll crave.
If you enjoy the comforting flavors of this Broccoli Cheese Casserole, you might also love our Creamy Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions, another Thanksgiving staple that delivers big on flavor and nostalgia. We genuinely believe this recipe will become a cherished part of your holiday tradition or any weeknight meal. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the kitchen and create this masterpiece – your taste buds will thank you!
What to Serve Broccoli Cheese Casserole With
This versatile Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a range of main dishes and other sides, making it a Thanksgiving superstar or a delightful addition to any meal.
- Holiday Roasts: It’s a natural fit for classic holiday centerpieces like Roasted Turkey, Baked Ham, or Prime Rib. The rich creaminess cuts through the savoriness of the meat.
- Chicken or Pork: For everyday meals, serve it alongside Roast Chicken, Pork Loin, or even simple Grilled Chicken Breasts.
- Other Thanksgiving Sides: Complement it with traditional dishes such as Cranberry Sauce, Sweet Potato Casserole, or Homemade Stuffing.
- Green Salad: A crisp, light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Don’t forget some warm, fluffy dinner rolls or a crusty baguette to sop up any leftover cheesy goodness!
Top Tips for Perfecting Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Achieving the ultimate Broccoli Cheese Casserole is all about a few key techniques and ingredient choices.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: When blanching, aim for crisp-tender. It will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooked broccoli can become mushy. The ice bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process and maintaining its vibrant green color.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese is Key: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce slightly grainy. For the smoothest, creamiest cheese sauce, shred your own sharp cheddar from a block.
- Whisk the Roux Constantly: When making the roux (butter + flour), whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. When adding the milk, pour gradually and whisk vigorously to ensure a lump-free cheese sauce.
- Seasoning Matters: Taste your cheese sauce before adding the broccoli. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. A pinch of nutmeg can also add a subtle warmth to the cheese sauce.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While panko and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment! Crushed Ritz crackers, crushed cornflakes, or even a sprinkle of crumbled bacon before baking can add another layer of flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: This casserole is fantastic for holiday meal prep! You can assemble the entire casserole (without the breadcrumb topping) up to 2 days in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To ensure your Broccoli Cheese Casserole remains delicious long after it’s baked, here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Reheating (Oven): For best results, reheat in the oven. Preheat to 325°F (160°C). If reheating a whole casserole, cover loosely with foil to prevent the topping from burning and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For individual portions, place on an oven-safe plate, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Reheating (Microwave): For a quick reheat, individual portions can be microwaved. Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed to your liking. Be aware that the topping may lose some of its crispiness in the microwave.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Once completely cooled, you can freeze it in the baking dish (if freezer-safe) tightly wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating from frozen (not recommended for best quality, but possible), cover tightly with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, uncovering for the last 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole truly embodies the essence of comfort food, blending tender broccoli with a rich, velvety cheese sauce and a delightful crunchy topping. It’s a dish that manages to be simple enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for a special holiday like Thanksgiving. The joy it brings to the table, both in flavor and warmth, is unparalleled. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe offers a delicious and rewarding experience. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested side dish at your next gathering – it really is that good!
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
- Crispy Sweet Potato Bites
- Matcha Cake Recipe
- find more in Pinterest
Broccoli Cheese Casserole FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, you can! Make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli completely and drain it very well (patting dry with paper towels is recommended) to avoid a watery casserole. The texture might be slightly softer than with fresh broccoli.
Q2: What kind of cheese is best for Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
A2: Sharp cheddar cheese is traditionally used for its robust flavor. However, you can experiment with a mix of cheeses like a white cheddar, Gruyère, or even a touch of Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Just make sure they melt well.
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the breadcrumb topping) up to 2 days in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking. You may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Q4: How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?
A4: The key to a smooth cheese sauce is making a proper roux (butter and flour mixture) and gradually adding the milk while whisking constantly and vigorously. Ensure the milk is at room temperature or slightly warm to prevent shocking the roux and creating lumps.
Q5: Is this Broccoli Cheese Casserole suitable for vegetarians?
A5: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it a great addition to a vegetarian-friendly Thanksgiving spread or any meal.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole – Classic Thanksgiving Side
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain immediately and plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve the vibrant color. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and pat dry. Set aside.2 lbs fresh broccoli florets
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. It should be light golden and smell slightly nutty.1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add 3 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.2 cups whole milk, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Gently fold the drained broccoli florets into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.2 lbs fresh broccoli florets
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated with butter.1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly.