Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole With Ritz Crackers Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that combines comfort and simplicity, this Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers is the perfect solution. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with the crunch of buttery Ritz crackers, this casserole is an ideal addition to any family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering. Even if you’re not a big fan of vegetables, the cheesy goodness and crunchy topping will have you coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This broccoli cheese casserole is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. With minimal prep time and just a handful of common ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. Plus, it’s kid-friendly! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to picky eaters, while the crispy Ritz cracker topping adds the perfect touch of indulgence.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you’ll love how easily this casserole comes together and how versatile it can be with a few tweaks here and there.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients used in this delightful casserole:

• Broccoli Florets (6 cups): You can use fresh or frozen broccoli for this recipe. If you prefer frozen, make sure to thaw it first. Broccoli is not only the star ingredient but also a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the richness of the dish.
• Mayonnaise (½ cup): This brings extra creaminess and enhances the flavor. Dukes mayonnaise is often preferred for its rich texture.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): The soup forms the base of the casserole, providing depth and creaminess.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1⅓ cups, divided): Cheddar adds a robust, tangy flavor that complements the broccoli perfectly. Use a sharp variety for the best taste.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): A simple way to infuse subtle garlicky flavor.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the flavors in the dish.
• Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a little bit of spice and warmth.
• Ritz Crackers (½ cup, crushed): These buttery crackers create a crunchy, golden-brown topping.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Combines with the crushed crackers for that irresistibly crisp topping.

this RECIPE

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious casserole:

1. Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.

2. Prepare the creamy base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the grated cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until smooth.

3. Add the broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets, ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

4. Crush the Ritz crackers

If using a food processor, pulse the Ritz crackers a few times until they are crumbly. Alternatively, you can place them in a zip-lock bag and crush them by hand. Once crushed, mix the crackers with the melted butter until evenly coated.

5. Assemble the casserole

Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Spread the broccoli mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of grated cheddar cheese on top, followed by the buttered Ritz cracker crumbs.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and the broccoli is fork-tender. Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Perfect Casserole

• Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Both options work great in this recipe. If using frozen, ensure that the broccoli is fully thawed and drained of excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.
• Evenly Coating the Broccoli: Make sure the broccoli is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.
• Crunchy Topping: If you love a super-crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the crackers.

Ritz Crackers: The Perfect Crunchy Topping

Ritz crackers are the unsung hero of this dish. Their buttery flavor and crunchy texture pair beautifully with the creaminess of the casserole. If you don’t have Ritz crackers, feel free to substitute with other crackers or breadcrumbs. Just make sure to mix them with butter to get that same crispy texture.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Here are a few variation ideas:

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken or bacon.
• Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Not a fan of broccoli? Try substituting with cauliflower, spinach, or green beans. You can also mix in a variety of vegetables for a colorful twist.

What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This casserole pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a light salad for a complete meal. It also works wonderfully as part of a holiday spread with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, though the topping may lose some of its crispiness.

For freezing, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the baking instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese like cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella for the best texture.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use any other buttery crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and check the labels on your soup and other ingredients.

conclusion

This Easy Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a crunchy topping. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner side or a dish to impress at your next potluck, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to try it out, share it with your friends, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one!

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