Easy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole Recipe (Creamy & Cheesy)

PLATE FULL OF CREAMY BROCCOLI CASSEROLE IN A RED SERVING PLATTER

Easy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole Recipe (Creamy & Cheesy)

This Easy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole Recipe (Creamy & Cheesy) is a cozy, family favorite! Made with tender broccoli, a rich cheddar sauce, and a crunchy topping, it’s the perfect side dish for holidays or weeknight dinners.

Prep Time20

Cook Time25

Total Time45

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Cheesy broccoli bake, Christmas dinner side dishes, Creamy broccoli casserole, Easy cheddar broccoli casserole, Easy weeknight casserole recipes, Family-friendly cheesy casserole, Holiday side dish recipes, Low carb broccoli casserole, Thanksgiving broccoli casserole

Servings: servings

Calories: 423kcal

Author: George - U Keep Cooking

Equipment

Casserole Dish

Ingredients

3 lbs broccoli florets (fresh) (cut into bite-size pieces)
1 onion (thinly sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 ½ cups whole milk (warmed)
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little color)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded (divided))
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

Crunchy Topping Ingredients:

¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil (for topping)

Instructions

Prep Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch in salted boiling water for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds. Sprinkle in flour and cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream. Add Dijon, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups cheddar and all the Parmesan until smooth.
Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread blanched broccoli in the dish. Pour cheese sauce over and toss gently to coat. Mix panko with olive oil and remaining ½ cup cheddar. Sprinkle over top.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition