As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on that crisp autumn chill, I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and nostalgia wafting through my kitchen. It’s that time of year when hearty dishes become the stars of our dining tables, bringing family and friends together. One of my all-time favorites that has earned the title of “family classic” is this incredibly delicious Rich Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Whenever I whip up this savory delight, I’m instantly transported to my childhood kitchen, where my mom would bake it on chilly evenings. The steam rising from the oven would wrap us in warmth, and the rich, cheesy aroma was enough to entice anyone—whether they were broccoli fans or not!

This dish is a cozy hug on a plate. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, whether you’re hosting a gathering, a holiday feast, or just want leftovers for the week. Trust me, this casserole doesn’t just please the palate; it’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and, let’s be honest, maybe even thirds). So let’s dive into this comforting recipe that will soon become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
• Easy to Make: With simple prep and baking steps, even novice cooks can master it!
• Comfort in Every Bite: The blend of creamy cheeses and tender broccoli is utterly satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins for a personal touch.

Ingredients

Gathering ingredients is the first step to this delicious casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets (you can also use frozen!)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (or quinoa!)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp works best for flavor!)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic adds even more punch!)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crushed crackers (like Ritz or your favorite buttery variety, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (to mix with the crackers for that extra crunchy topping)

Note: You can opt for low-fat dairy products or gluten-free crackers if you want to lighten things up or cater to dietary needs!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to create this mouthwatering dish? Let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s getting nice and warm, you can prep your broccoli!
2. Prep the broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it until bright green and just tender, about 4-5 minutes. If you’re using frozen, just thaw it out. Drain any excess water and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix it all up: In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This is where the magic happens—mix it all until well combined, but don’t overmix, or your casserole will be dense!
4. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. The colors will make you drool already!
5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. This will create that irresistible crispy topping! Sprinkle it evenly over the broccoli mixture.
6. Bake it: Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it—your kitchen will smell utterly divine by now!
7. Enjoy: Once done, take it out and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This little wait will help it set a bit. Then, dig in!

Pro Tips & Variations

This casserole is like a blank canvas—it’s ready for you to personalize. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Proteins: Toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for extra heartiness. You could even stir in some crispy bacon for a smoky twist!
• Change Up the Cheese: Mix it up by incorporating other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a bit of a kick!
• Get Creative with Spices: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat or a bit of curry powder for a unique spin that adds warmth.
• Top It Differently: Instead of crushed crackers, try topping the casserole with French fried onions or breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Rich Broccoli Cheese Casserole is perfect on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread to scoop up those cheesy bites.
• It makes a hearty side dish for grilled meats or roasted veggies, adding a comforting touch to any meal.

I love to enjoy mine with a hot cup of tea or a glass of white wine—perfect for winding down after a busy day. The casserole itself feels like a celebration, bringing warmth and joy to the dinner table!

Storage Tips

Leftovers? Yes, please! Here’s how to store your delicious casserole without losing any of its charm:

• Refrigerating: Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to save it for later, freeze it before baking to ensure optimal freshness (just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil). It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions above.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep that topping crispy!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your dish.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge unbaked. When you’re ready to eat, pop it in the oven without thawing. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

What can I serve with my casserole?

This dish pairs beautifully with salads (think Caesar or garden) and crusty bread. You could also serve it with a fruit-based dessert to balance the richness.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Sure! Shredded chicken, turkey, or even some crispy bacon can add a wonderful flavor and make this dish even heartier. Just mix it in with the other ingredients!

What if I want to make it lighter?

You can swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese options. Also, consider using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for fewer carbs.

Conclusion

This Rich Broccoli Cheese Casserole for a Crowd is truly one of those special recipes that brings people together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a large gathering of friends, this dish has a way of making everyone feel at home. I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with it as much as I have. I’d love to hear how you made it your own or any fun twists you experimented with! Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on social media. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delightful bite!

Irresistible Rich Broccoli Cheese Casserole for a Crowd Delight

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Savor the creamy blend of broccoli cheese in this rich casserole perfect for feeding a crowd Easy delicious and sure to impress 154 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds of fresh broccoli florets

1 cup of cooked white rice

1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup

1 cup of sour cream

2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup of milk

1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 teaspoon of onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup of crushed crackers

2 tablespoons of melted butter

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

If using fresh broccoli, steam it until bright green and tender, about 4-5 minutes. If using frozen, just thaw and chop.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.

Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

A delicious and comforting broccoli cheese casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, made with fresh broccoli, creamy cheeses, and topped with crunchy crackers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 grams
• Fat: 22 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Protein: 15 grams

Keywords: Broccoli Cheese Casserole, Comfort Food, Casserole Recipes, Holiday Recipes, Family Dinner