Print

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

broccoli cheese casserole - Tasty
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole, perfect as a holiday side dish or a weeknight vegetable bake. This recipe uses fresh ingredients for a rich flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 minutes. Drain well and spread them in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli in the baking dish, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter and the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
  8. Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
  10. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a crispier topping, you can toast the cracker mixture lightly before adding it to the casserole.
  • If you prefer not to use Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs or crushed butter crackers also work well.
  • This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
  • To freeze, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/broccoli-cheese-casserole-tips/