Description
A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Casserole featuring tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich cheese sauce made with American, Velveeta, and cheddar cheeses, topped with a buttery crunchy cracker crust baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Casserole Base
- 1/2 cup salted butter (divided)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 12 ounces evaporated milk or half and half
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces American or Velveeta cheese
- 22 ounces frozen broccoli florets
- 6 ounces medium cheddar cheese (divided)
Topping
- 30 buttery round crackers (1 sleeve)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with salted butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Make Roux: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of the salted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly but doesn’t brown. This step cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Add Dairy and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk (or half and half) and the regular milk, ensuring a smooth blend without lumps. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, and cook while stirring constantly for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Melt Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and add the American or Velveeta cheese along with 4 ounces of the medium cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted into the sauce, creating a creamy cheesy base.
- Incorporate Broccoli: Pour frozen broccoli florets directly into the skillet and stir until the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the broccoli and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish to create a uniform layer for baking.
- Prepare Topping: Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Combine the melted butter with the remaining 2 ounces of cheddar cheese (shredded) and crushed buttery round crackers. Sprinkle this cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping has turned a golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use frozen broccoli directly from the freezer with no need to thaw.
- American or Velveeta cheese gives the sauce a smooth texture and mild flavor, but you can substitute with processed cheese of choice.
- Crackers can be crushed more finely for a crispier topping.
- For a lighter version, substitute half and half with low-fat milk.
- Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheddar cheese casserole, cheesy broccoli bake, comfort food, baked broccoli, cheesy casserole, family dinner recipe
