Imagine it’s a cold weeknight, and your kids are hungry. You want a meal that’s quick and easy. The Easy Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole is perfect. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making 12 servings of creamy, cheesy goodness.
This recipe is a hit at family dinners. It fills your home with delicious smells and laughter.
In 35 minutes, you can make a tasty casserole. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for your family.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Yields 12 servings—perfect for family dinners.
- It only takes 15 minutes of prep time, making it a quick solution for busy evenings.
- Combines Velveeta cheese and Ritz crackers for a creamy and crunchy texture.
- Leftovers can be stored for up to three days in the fridge.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with holiday meals or roasted chicken.
- Preparation can be done a day in advance, making it even more convenient.
Introduction to Casserole Delights
Casseroles are a big hit in comfort food, bringing warmth and joy after a long day. They’re great for family dinners or cozy nights in. You can mix and match ingredients to make each dish special and tasty.
Broccoli cheese casseroles are especially loved. They mix broccoli’s health benefits with melted cheese. Broccoli adds calcium and vitamin K, making the dish healthy and delicious. Plus, casseroles get thicker as they cool, making every bite satisfying.
Many people enjoy making casseroles because they’re easy to work with. You can use what you have to create something new. This lets your creativity shine, from choosing meats to adding veggies.
In short, casseroles are a joy to make and share. They bring families together, filling both plates and hearts.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Servings | 8 |
| Calories | 238.9 |
| Protein | 10.3g |
| Fat | 19.9g |
| Fiber | 2.3g |
| Net Carbs | 4.8g |
What Makes Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole Special
This cheesy broccoli casserole is a comforting meal that everyone loves. It has gooey, melty cheddar cheese and crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs. Each bite is warm and inviting, making it a favorite for families.
It’s also very versatile. You can add a bit of cayenne for spice or use different cheeses like gruyere or fontina. This makes it perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Making this casserole is easy, and it’s ready in no time. If you want to add something special, try homemade cheese crackers. You can find a great recipe here.
Ingredients for Your Casserole Creation
To make a tasty broccoli casserole, you need simple ingredients. These will mix together to create a dish full of flavor and texture. Here are the main ingredients and some optional ones to make your casserole even better.
Main Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ lbs fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups milk
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 60 grams)
Optional Ingredients to Customize Your Dish
- Cream cheese for extra creaminess in the sauce
- Cooked chicken to add protein
- Cayenne pepper to spice things up
- Gluten-free crackers as a substitute for Ritz crackers
- Plant-based milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free option
The broccoli casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Fresh broccoli is best for texture. A layer of melted butter and garlic on crushed crackers adds a crunchy topping. Each part adds something special, making it a hit at family gatherings.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the easy broccoli cheese and cracker casserole is simple. Follow these steps for a creamy, cheesy dish. You’ll learn how to bake it perfectly.
Prepping Your Broccoli
Start by cutting 3 pounds of broccoli into small pieces. Boil them in salted water for 3-5 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp.
Drain the broccoli and let it cool. This step is key for the right texture in your casserole.
Creating the Cheesy Sauce
Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle 5 tablespoons of flour and whisk until it forms a roux. Then, add 4 cups of whole milk, stirring until smooth.
After a few minutes, add 8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts into a creamy sauce. This sauce is the heart of your casserole.
Combining Ingredients for Baking
In a large bowl, mix the cooked broccoli with half of the cracker crumbs and the cheesy sauce. Stir well to distribute evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top it with the remaining Ritz cracker crumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This adds a delicious crunch. Bake at 400°F for 15 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Baking Your Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high heat helps set the top and brings out the flavors. After 10 minutes, lower it to 375°F and bake for 16 to 20 minutes more.
Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. You’re aiming for a bubbly cheese sauce and a golden brown cracker topping. This step is key to a great texture. The smell will make everyone excited for the meal.
Once baked, let it rest for a bit before serving. This makes it easier to serve and showcases your hard work. The Ritz cracker topping adds a nice crunch to the creamy broccoli mix. It’s a comforting treat in every bite.
Tips for the Best Comfort Food Casserole
To make your broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers truly exceptional, consider these valuable tips. From choosing the best broccoli to perfecting your crunchy topping, each step contributes to creating a delicious family favorite casserole.
Using Fresh vs Frozen Broccoli
For an optimal texture and flavor, fresh broccoli is the preferred choice. It retains more nutrients and offers a firmer bite. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is completely thawed before incorporating it into your dish. This adjustment prevents excess moisture in your casserole, making the final product more appealing.
Additions Like Cooked Chicken or Other Vegetables
To elevate your broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers, consider adding diced cooked chicken or other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots. These additions create a heartier dish, perfect for feeding a larger crowd or satisfying even the hungriest family members. Variations can enhance both taste and nutrition, adapting the recipe to your family’s preferences.
Perfecting the Golden Cracker Topping
The Ritz cracker topping is a hallmark of this comforting dish. For that perfect crunch, crush the crackers lightly before sprinkling them over the casserole. A consistent topping not only enhances texture but also contributes to the overall flavor profile. Baking will give your casserole a beautifully golden crust, making it irresistibly appetizing.
| Ingredient | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | Use fresh for best flavor; frozen if thawed well |
| Add-ins | Diced cooked chicken, peppers, or carrots |
| Cracker topping | Crushed lightly for a crunchy experience |
| Baking | 350°F for 30-40 minutes until melted; cover if over-browning |
As you prepare your casserole, these tips will help you create a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also becomes a beloved family favorite. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a holiday gathering, this broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To enjoy your delicious broccoli cheese casserole even after the initial serving, proper storage methods are essential. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can successfully store your leftovers to savor later.
How Long Can You Keep Leftovers?
Your stored broccoli cheese casserole can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole, where it can last for up to three months without the Ritz cracker topping.
Best Methods for Reheating
Reheating your leftovers can be done effectively using a few different methods. For individual servings, the microwave works well; simply heat at 50% power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For larger portions, a preferred method involves preheating your oven to 350°F. Let the casserole come to room temperature, then bake it covered with foil for about 15 minutes. You can also choose to broil the casserole for a quick, crispy topping, which takes only 2-3 minutes under a broiler-safe dish.
By implementing these tips for storing broccoli cheese casserole and reheating leftovers, you can ensure that you enjoy every last bite of this delightful dish. Discover more irresistible recipes and ideas like a vegan cheese ball here.
Pairing Suggestions for Your Casserole
Enhancing your comfort food casserole experience is all about thoughtful pairings. A delicious dinner idea can turn a simple casserole into a grand meal. Think about pairing your broccoli cheese and cracker casserole with main dishes and sides. This will elevate the flavors and make for a well-rounded dining experience.
Main Dishes That Compliment Your Casserole
- Thanksgiving turkey provides a savory contrast that your guests will appreciate.
- Christmas ham adds a sweet and salty profile, beautifully balancing the creamy casserole.
- Roasted chicken enhances the meal with tender, juicy flavors.
Ideal Side Dishes for Complete Meals
- Garlic bread offers a crunchy, buttery contrast that pairs well with the creamy texture.
- Simple green salads provide freshness and a hint of acidity to lighten the meal.
- Steamed asparagus or green beans adds another vegetable option that harmonizes with the casserole.
By carefully selecting these accompanying dishes, you create a memorable dining experience. It highlights your delicious dinner idea and ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied and happy.
Why This Dish is a Family Favorite
The Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole is a hit with families. It’s a mix of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and crunchy Ritz crackers. This combo wins over kids and adults.
It’s easy to make, ready in under an hour. You can serve it to 10 people, perfect for big gatherings. It’s a favorite at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
It’s also good for you, with 287.49 calories and 10.9g of protein per serving. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli to save money.
Families love that you can add chicken or spices like garlic powder. This makes the dish even more delicious. It’s a hit with everyone because you can customize it.
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 287.49 |
| Total Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 442mg |
| Carbohydrates | 17g |
| Protein | 10.9g |
This casserole brings warmth and joy to the table. It’s a recipe that families love, with a 4.56 out of 5 rating from 145 votes. It’s a symbol of comfort and togetherness.
Easy Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole Variations
Exploring easy broccoli cheese and cracker casserole variations lets you tailor the dish to suit different tastes and diets. You can make it vegetarian or gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it. This flexibility makes your cooking more exciting and pleases your guests.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
To make it vegetarian, add more veggies or skip the chicken. Bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms work well with broccoli. For gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers like Schär or Kinnikinnick. This way, you can enjoy the dish while following gluten-free diets.
Different Cheese Combinations You Can Try
Experimenting with cheese can make the dish even better. Extra sharp cheddar is classic, but try mixing it with mozzarella for stretchiness or cream cheese for creaminess. Adding pepper jack cheese gives it a spicy twist. These variations keep your meals interesting and delicious.
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Melt Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Sharp Cheddar | Rich, tangy | Good |
| Mozzarella | Stretchy, mild | Excellent |
| Cream Cheese | Rich, creamy | Very Good |
| Pepper Jack | Spicy, buttery | Good |
These easy broccoli cheese and cracker casserole variations show how versatile and welcoming this dish can be. It invites everyone to enjoy its comforting taste.
Conclusion
The broccoli cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is more than just a simple recipe. It’s a beloved comfort food perfect for any meal. The creamy cheddar cheese and crunchy Ritz cracker topping make it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s ideal for a busy weeknight or a relaxed family get-together.
This recipe is also very flexible. You can add cooked chicken or other veggies to make it your own. Using frozen broccoli florets makes the dish quick to prepare. It also adds a soft, flavorful texture that goes well with the cheese and creamy soup.
In short, this broccoli cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is a great addition to your cooking collection. It’s easy to make and loved by all, embodying the warmth of homemade meals. Try it out and watch as everyone at your table smiles.
F.A.Q
How long does it take to prepare and cook the Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole?
It takes about 35 minutes to make this easy casserole. This includes 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of baking.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli is best for the best taste and texture in your casserole.
What makes this casserole a perfect family-friendly meal?
It’s a mix of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and crunchy topping. It’s a comforting dish that everyone loves.
Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, use sharp cheddar, or spice it up with cayenne.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Use plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What are some good side dishes to pair with the casserole?
It goes well with Thanksgiving turkey or roasted chicken. Side salads or steamed veggies add balance to your meal.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz to make it gluten-free.
How do I achieve the perfect golden topping on my casserole?
Crush the Ritz crackers lightly before topping. This helps get that golden crunch. Keep an eye on it while it bakes!
