Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, these provide the main vegetable component of the casserole.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded, this adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the dish.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy consistency in the casserole.

Cream of mushroom soup: Adds depth and creaminess to the casserole base.

Breadcrumbs: Used for the crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.

Butter: Melted, it helps to bind the breadcrumbs and adds flavor.

Salt and pepper: To taste, these season the casserole and enhance its flavors.

When preparing the broccoli for this casserole, blanching it briefly in boiling water before combining it with the other ingredients can enhance its color and texture. Simply bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the broccoli florets, and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step ensures that the broccoli remains vibrant and retains a pleasant crunch in the final dish.

• broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a great alternative to broccoli.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and provides a creamy texture, though it has a milder flavor compared to cheddar.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option and has a similar consistency to regular milk.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: Cream of chicken soup offers a similar creamy texture and can add a different but complementary flavor to the casserole.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a crunchy texture and can be a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs.

• melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier fat option and adds a subtle flavor to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor and reduce the need for additional salt.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

• Allow the broccoli cheese casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. If you don't have one large enough, you can use multiple smaller containers or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it is kept at a consistent temperature to maintain its freshness.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. First, ensure it is completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its storage time. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to reheat, if frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it is heated through. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
• For a quicker option, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power until warmed through, usually 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the leftover broccoli cheese casserole to an oven-safe dish if it's not already in one.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
  4. Heat in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top crisp up again.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then stir.
  4. Continue heating in 1-minute increments until the casserole is hot throughout.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover broccoli cheese casserole to the skillet.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, cooking for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  5. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of milk or cream of mushroom soup to keep it moist.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, and cream of mushroom soup.

• Baking dish: Used to transfer and spread the broccoli mixture evenly for baking.

• Small bowl: Needed to mix the breadcrumbs and melted butter together.

• Measuring cups: Important for accurately measuring the milk, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

• Can opener: Necessary for opening the can of cream of mushroom soup.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Spatula: Helps in spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Use pre-cut broccoli: Save time by using pre-cut broccoli florets from the store instead of cutting fresh ones.

Shred cheese in advance: Shred the cheddar cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge to speed up assembly.

Pre-mix breadcrumbs: Combine breadcrumbs and melted butter in advance and store in an airtight container.

Use microwave: Quickly steam frozen broccoli in the microwave to cut down on cooking time.

One-bowl mixing: Mix all ingredients in one large bowl to minimize cleanup and save time.