cheddars broccoli cheese casserole recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
cheddars broccoli cheese casserole recipe
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The Best cheddars broccoli cheese casserole recipe

I have been making this Cheddar’s broccoli cheese casserole recipe for years and it is a staple in our house. My kids actually ask for broccoli now because of this dish, which feels like a small miracle. It is creamy, cheesy, and has that perfect golden top that everyone fights over. I love that it uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand and comes together quickly for a weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish. Beyond the taste, it is a great way to get vegetables into a meal without anyone complaining, and the broccoli adds fiber and vitamins. This casserole always disappears fast at potlucks and family dinners, and I am always asked for the recipe.

Cheddar's Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Cheddar’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole

4.8 from 1932 votes

This copycat Cheddar’s broccoli cheese casserole is rich, creamy, and loaded with sharp cheddar flavor. It features tender broccoli florets in a velvety cheese sauce topped with a crispy cracker crust.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Topping

1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and set aside.
3In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6Place the blanched broccoli in the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and stir gently to coat.
7In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
8Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese to 1 1/2 cups. You can also add cooked chicken or ham to make it a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Cheddar’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole Works

This cheddar’s broccoli cheese casserole is always a good idea because it is simple to make and pleases just about everyone. I serve it for holidays, Sunday dinners, and even casual weeknights. It is one of those dishes that feels special but comes together without a lot of fuss, and that is why it stays in my regular rotation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then blanch it for just 1 minute to keep it from getting mushy.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 5 to 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for the topping?

You can substitute with crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, or even crushed potato chips for a different flavor and crunch.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, this recipe is not gluten-free because of the flour and crackers. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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