Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe for Dinner

Fresh broccoli florets are coated in a homemade cheddar cheese sauce and finished with a crisp, buttery crumb topping in this Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole. Warm, comforting, and perfect for weeknights or holidays, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare.

The Easiest, Cheesiest Way to Serve Broccoli

A creamy homemade cheese sauce is one of the most satisfying ways to serve broccoli. Even picky eaters often warm up to vegetables when they’re smothered in cheese, and this sauce has enough flavor to make broccoli a star on the plate. Made from simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and tastes like comfort food.

The casserole is finished with a golden panko topping that adds a delightful crunch. Balanced and flavorful, this dish works well as a vegetarian main or a hearty side for holiday meals and casual dinners alike. Make it once and it will likely become a repeat favorite.

This Creamy Broccoli Casserole Is…

• Made from scratch
• Simple to assemble
• Cozy and satisfying
• A great vegetarian main course
• Ideal for holiday menus
• Kid-friendly, even for picky eaters

What Ingredients Do You Need?

This casserole relies on straightforward ingredients—no processed shortcuts required. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Broccoli: About 2 heads, cut into bite-sized florets (approximately 8 cups).
• Butter: Salted or unsalted, according to preference.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best; garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Flour: All-purpose flour makes a quick roux to thicken the sauce.
• Milk: Use 2% or whole milk for creaminess, or a non-dairy alternative if needed.
• Water or Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds flavor; water is fine if you don’t have broth.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar plus grated Parmesan for depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper
• Panko: For a crunchy topping—regular or low-carb panko both work.

Can I Substitute Frozen Broccoli?

• Yes. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s well drained. Let it sit in a colander for about 15 minutes at room temperature, then press with paper towels to remove excess moisture before assembling the casserole.

Let’s Make Cheesy Broccoli Casserole!

The recipe is essentially two parts: a silky cheese sauce and baking the broccoli until bubbly and golden. Follow these steps:

1. Preheat and prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the broccoli florets in a large ovenproof baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the garlic: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
3. Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, whisking until it forms a smooth paste. Cook, whisking, for about one minute.
4. Add liquids: Slowly whisk in the milk, then the water or broth, stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
5. Add cheese: Remove from heat and whisk in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and stir to combine. Mix panko with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake 15 more minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest 5 minutes, taste for seasoning, and serve warm.

Do You Have to Cook Broccoli First?

Pre-blanching is optional. This casserole cooks well with raw broccoli added straight to the dish, which keeps the preparation simple.

Broccoli Casserole Tips and Hacks

This recipe is flexible—feel free to customize it. A few ideas:

• Use a creamy soup: If you prefer a shortcut, substitute a can of cream soup or a creamy soup alternative for the homemade sauce.
• Add protein: Stir in shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, or crumbled cooked sausage for a heartier dish.
• Swap toppings: Panko is ideal, but crushed crackers, corn flakes, or breadcrumbs also create a satisfying crunch.
• Mix vegetables: Add cauliflower, carrots, or sautéed mushrooms to vary the flavor and texture.

Perfect Serving Ideas

This casserole makes a lovely side or a satisfying vegetarian main. Pair it with:

• Bread: A rustic artisan loaf or simple crusty bread complements the creamy casserole.
• Soup: A bowl of tomato or vegetable soup pairs nicely for a cozy meal.
• Roasted or baked ham: For a festive plate, serve alongside glazed ham or another roasted protein.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to airtight containers or resealable bags.
• Refrigerate: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in an ovenproof dish at 350°F, covered with foil. Remove the foil for the final few minutes to crisp the topping.

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

• Yes. Cool completely, then wrap tightly or transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

More Cozy Side Dishes

• Creamed Corn Pudding
• Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potatoes