Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

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Cheesy Broccoli Casserole – Creamy, Comforting, and Family-Approved!

Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that gets everyone excited about broccoli? This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, garlicky side dish—or even a light vegetarian main—that comes together in under 40 minutes and wins over even the pickiest eaters. Bursting with gooey cheese, Italian herbs, and a velvety cream sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, holidays, or potlucks.

Whether you’re trying to add more vegetables to your meals or need a simple crowd-pleaser, this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

 Ready in 35 Minutes

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Resting Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 6 generous portions

 Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds broccoli florets (fresh is best, but frozen can work with slight adjustments)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp for extra flavor)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, optional for a little kick

 Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2.5 to 3-quart baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
  2. Cook the Broccoli:
    In a large skillet or saucepan, bring about ½ inch of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and steam over high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Drain well and transfer the broccoli to your prepared baking dish.
  3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
    In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine and Bake:
    Spoon the cheese mixture over the broccoli and gently stir everything together right in the baking dish until the broccoli is coated. Bake in the preheated oven for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden at the edges.
  5. Rest and Serve:
    Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve warm and enjoy!

 Helpful Tips & Variations

  • Use Frozen Broccoli:
    If you’re short on time, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Thaw and drain thoroughly before cooking—skip boiling and steam in the microwave if preferred.
  • Cheese Swap:
    Feel free to mix in mozzarella, provolone, fontina, or even a bit of spicy pepper jack cheese for variety.
  • Add Protein:
    Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey to make it a hearty main dish.
  • Boost the Veggies:
    Add sautéed mushrooms, corn, or cauliflower for more texture and nutrients.
  • Make it Crunchy:
    Before baking, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers for a crisp topping. A handful of crispy fried onions also adds delicious crunch.
  • Make Ahead:
    Assemble the casserole ahead of time—up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 287
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 66mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Vitamin C: 102mg
  • Calcium: 277mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used. For more precise data, use your preferred calculator.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy prep—perfect for busy weeknights
  • Crowd-pleasing flavors and cheesy comfort in every bite
  • Customizable with proteins, extra vegetables, or toppings
  • Naturally gluten-free with no flour or breadcrumbs (unless added)

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