Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe

I absolutely love making this Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe because it transformed how my family views vegetables. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the creamy cheese sauce perfectly complemented the tender broccoli florets. 

The combination of three different cheeses creates such a rich, indulgent flavor that even my pickiest eaters ask for seconds. I’ve been making this dish for years now, and it never fails to be the star of our dinner table. What I appreciate most is how simple it is to prepare, yet the results taste like something from a gourmet restaurant.

Ingredients 

Here’s what you’ll need for a comforting and cheesy broccoli bake. Plus, little tips to make it shine.

• 2 pounds fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets: Fresh broccoli holds its shape better and has a more vibrant flavor than frozen
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated: Sharp cheddar provides the bold, tangy flavor that makes this casserole memorable
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds that perfect stretchy, melty texture we all love
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings a nutty, savory depth to the cheese blend
• 3 tablespoons butter: Creates the base for our creamy sauce
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce without lumps
• 2 cups whole milk: Use whole milk for the richest, creamiest texture
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic flavor without overpowering the cheese
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and depth
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistible golden, crunchy topping
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the breadcrumbs achieve perfect golden browning

Note: This recipe serves 6-8 people as a hearty side dish.

Variations

Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe to suit your needs:

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk—then swap sharp cheddar for your favorite vegan cheese.
• Lower Fat: Use whole milk instead of half & half, and cut back on butter for a lighter version.
• Flavor Boosters: Stir in a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of dry mustard for extra warmth.
• Crunch Alternatives: Substitute buttery panko crumbs or gluten-free crackers for the topping.
• Add Protein: Mix in diced cooked chicken or ham to turn it into a full meal.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Large pot: For blanching the broccoli to perfect tenderness
• 9×13 inch baking dish: The ideal size for even cooking and serving
• Medium saucepan: For making the smooth, creamy cheese sauce
• Whisk: Essential for creating a lump-free sauce
• Colander: To drain the blanched broccoli properly
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions
• Cheese grater: Fresh grated cheese melts so much better than pre-shredded

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe?

Making this delicious casserole is easier than you might think. The key to success lies in properly preparing each component before assembling. I always start by getting my oven preheated and my ingredients organized, which makes the entire process smooth and enjoyable.

Prepare the Broccoli

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing your 9×13 inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for just 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender but still have a bit of crunch. Immediately drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to drain completely.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely without letting it brown. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Assemble

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and most of the Parmesan cheese, reserving some for topping, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Gently fold the blanched broccoli into the cheese sauce until every piece is well coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Add the Topping and Bake

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and the remaining Parmesan cheese, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole for that perfect golden crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are a few tweaks I’ve learned from making this casserole time after time:

• I always make sure to not overcook the broccoli during blanching because it will continue cooking in the oven, and nobody wants mushy vegetables
• When I make the cheese sauce, I remove it from heat before adding the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating
• I’ve found that letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking makes it much easier to serve and helps the flavors meld together perfectly
• For extra flavor depth, I sometimes sauté a small diced onion in the butter before adding the flour for the roux
• I recommend using a combination of cheeses rather than just one type because it creates a more complex and interesting flavor profile

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe?

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork. I love serving it alongside a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal. 

For special occasions, garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness. The casserole also works wonderfully as part of a holiday buffet, where guests can enjoy it as either a side dish or a vegetarian main course. When serving, use a large spoon to ensure each portion gets plenty of that creamy, cheesy sauce along with the perfectly cooked broccoli.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you can expect from each serving of this delicious casserole:

• Calories: Approximately 285 calories per serving
• Protein: 14 grams of muscle-building protein
• Carbohydrates: 16 grams of energy-providing carbs
• Fat: 18 grams of satisfying healthy fats

Make Ahead and Storage

Keeps well and helps with planning:

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in the fridge covered for about 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. It tastes even better the next day.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the fully baked casserole after it’s cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic and foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Make-Ahead Options

You can assemble the casserole ahead without the topping and refrigerate. Add the topping and bake right before serving. It’s a great time-saver for busy days or holiday dinner prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here are the reasons this cheesy broccoli casserole will become your new favorite dish:

• Incredibly Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe and impress their family and friends with minimal effort.
• Perfect Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender broccoli appeals to both adults and children, making it ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to accommodate different dietary needs or preferences by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite mix-ins.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without the stress.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: You get all the satisfaction of a creamy, indulgent casserole while still getting a healthy serving of vegetables and protein in every bite.