Creamy Dreamy Broccoli Casserole: A Crowd-Pleasing Recipe
This broccoli casserole recipe is sure to become a family favorite! It's creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a weeknight dinner. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, making it accessible to even novice cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller groups.
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcook; you want them to retain some texture. Drain well.
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Combine the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Mix it Up: Gently fold in the cooked broccoli florets. Make sure the broccoli is well coated in the creamy mixture.
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Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the bread crumbs are evenly moistened.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumb topping evenly over the casserole.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the BEST Broccoli Casserole:
- Don't overcook the broccoli! Tender-crisp is key.
- Use fresh bread crumbs for the best flavor and texture. Panko bread crumbs are highly recommended for a crispy topping.
- For extra cheese, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar on top before adding the bread crumb topping.
- Add some spice! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This broccoli casserole is delicious served as a side dish with roasted chicken, turkey, or ham. It's also great as a standalone vegetarian main course.
FAQs about Broccoli Casserole:
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- What kind of cheese can I use? Cheddar is traditional, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend.
Enjoy your delicious and easy broccoli casserole! Let me know in the comments how yours turns out!
