Cheesy

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Name: Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

By Maren Holloway · June 19, 2026 · Cheesy

Prep20 min

Cook35 min

Total60 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I tasted a cheesy broccoli casserole - it was at a family gathering, and it was love at first bite. The combination of tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy breadcrumb topping was absolute perfection. Since then, I've been on a mission to recreate that dish in my own kitchen, and after many trials and errors, I'm excited to share my version with you.

This casserole is more than just a recipe - it's a way to bring people together. Whether you're serving it at a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, it's sure to be a hit. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills.

As a home cook, I know how important it is to have a repertoire of reliable, crowd-pleasing dishes that can be whipped up with minimal fuss. That's why I've developed this recipe for cheesy broccoli casserole - it's a versatile, comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through every step of the way, from preparing the ingredients to assembling and baking the casserole. I'll also share some tips and tricks I've learned along the way to ensure that your casserole turns out perfectly every time. So let's get started, and let's make some delicious cheesy broccoli casserole!

One of the things I love about this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs by using different types of cheese, adding some spice or herbs, or even substituting the broccoli with other vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to experiment and find your own favorite variations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
It's a crowd-pleaser, and is sure to be a hit at any gathering or potluck.
The combination of broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumb topping provides a delicious and satisfying flavor and texture.
It's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
It's a comforting, homey dish that's perfect for a cold winter's night or a special occasion.
It's a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables, and can be made with a variety of different vegetables if you prefer.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great cheesy broccoli casserole is in the layering. By alternating between a creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, you create a dish that's both texturally interesting and visually appealing. The cheese sauce, made with a combination of cheddar, parmesan, and cream, provides a rich and creamy base that coats the broccoli and binds the whole dish together.

The broccoli, which is steamed to perfection before being added to the casserole, provides a burst of green flavor and nutrients. And the breadcrumb topping, made with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese, adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of salty flavor.

But what really makes this casserole work is the way it's assembled and baked. By layering the ingredients in a specific order and baking the casserole in a hot oven, you create a dish that's both golden brown and creamy, with a crispy topping and a tender, cheesy center.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great cheesy broccoli casserole, the ingredients are key. You'll need a combination of fresh broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy breadcrumb topping to create a dish that's both delicious and visually appealing. Here are the ingredients you'll need to get started:

Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, such as fresh broccoli and real cheese, to ensure that your casserole turns out perfectly. You can also customize the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs by using different types of cheese or adding some spice or herbs.

3 cups broccoli floretsFresh broccoli is essential for this recipe, as it provides a burst of green flavor and nutrients. You can use frozen broccoli if you prefer, but be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture.
2 tablespoons unsalted butterUnsalted butter is used to sauté the broccoli and add flavor to the cheese sauce. You can also use salted butter if you prefer, but be sure to omit any additional salt called for in the recipe.
1 medium onion, dicedA medium onion provides a sweet and savory flavor to the casserole. You can use any type of onion you prefer, but be sure to dice it finely so that it cooks evenly.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a pungent flavor to the casserole and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. You can use more or less garlic depending on your personal preference.
1 cup grated cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese provides a rich and creamy base for the casserole. You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but be sure to grate it finely so that it melts evenly.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the casserole. You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but be sure to grate it finely so that it melts evenly.
1/2 cup all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is used to thicken the cheese sauce and provide a smooth and creamy texture. You can use any type of flour you prefer, but be sure to whisk it well to avoid any lumps.
1 cup milkMilk provides a creamy and smooth texture to the cheese sauce. You can use any type of milk you prefer, but be sure to whisk it well to avoid any lumps.
1 teaspoon dried thymeDried thyme adds a savory and slightly bitter flavor to the casserole. You can use any type of herb you prefer, but be sure to use it sparingly so that it doesn't overpower the other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and provides a savory flavor to the casserole. You can use any type of salt you prefer, but be sure to use it sparingly so that it doesn't overpower the other ingredients.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp and peppery flavor to the casserole. You can use any type of pepper you prefer, but be sure to use it sparingly so that it doesn't overpower the other ingredients.
1 cup panko breadcrumbsPanko breadcrumbs provide a crunchy and crispy texture to the casserole. You can use any type of breadcrumb you prefer, but be sure to use panko breadcrumbs for the best results.

Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Equipment You’ll Need

Large skillet or sauté panMedium saucepanWhiskMeasuring cups and spoons9x13 inch baking dishInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it's softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until they're tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
6
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
7
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
8
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked broccoli in the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the broccoli, followed by half of the panko breadcrumbs.
9
Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining broccoli, then the remaining cheese sauce, and finally the remaining panko breadcrumbs.
10
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and the topping is lightly browned.
11
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
12
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

To ensure that the casserole is cooked through and the topping is crispy, make sure to not overmix the cheese sauce and to not overcrowd the baking dish.
If you want a crisper topping, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after removing the foil. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
To add some extra flavor to the casserole, you can sprinkle some dried herbs or spices over the top of the breadcrumb mixture before baking.
If you're using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
To make the casserole more substantial, you can add some cooked chicken or bacon to the cheese sauce before assembling the casserole.
To make the casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Simply bake it when you're ready to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the broccoli until it's tender, resulting in a crunchy and raw texture in the finished casserole.
Not whisking the cheese sauce enough, resulting in a lumpy and uneven texture.
Overcrowding the baking dish, resulting in a casserole that's difficult to serve and doesn't cook evenly.
Not letting the casserole rest before serving, resulting in a dish that's messy and difficult to serve.
Not using high-quality ingredients, resulting in a casserole that's lacking in flavor and texture.
Not following the recipe, resulting in a casserole that's not cooked through or has an uneven texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced ham or bacon to the cheese sauce for a smoky and savory flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique and interesting flavor.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
Use gluten-free flour to make the casserole gluten-free.
Add some dried herbs or spices, such as thyme or paprika, to the cheese sauce for added flavor.
Use panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese for an extra crispy and cheesy topping.
Make individual servings of the casserole in ramekins or small baking dishes for a fun and easy appetizer or side dish.

What to Serve With Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

This casserole is perfect for serving as a main dish or side dish, and can be paired with a variety of different ingredients to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Some ideas for what to serve with the casserole include:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, for a refreshing and healthy contrast to the rich and creamy casserole.

A side of garlic bread or crusty bread, for a satisfying and filling accompaniment to the casserole.

A fruit salad or fruit crisp, for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory casserole.

Garlic breadGreen saladFruit saladRoasted vegetablesGrilled chicken or steakMashed potatoes

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the casserole in the refrigerator, simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

To freeze the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen casserole can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator, or thawed quickly by submerging the container in cold water.

To reheat the casserole, simply cover it with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat the casserole in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the cheese to become tough and rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Simply bake it when you're ready to serve.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

What type of cheese is best to use in this casserole?

A combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese works well in this casserole, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique and interesting flavor.

Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?

Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as diced ham or bacon, to the cheese sauce for added flavor and protein.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it's hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crispy. You can also check the internal temperature of the casserole, which should be at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and being careful to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients.

How do I reheat the casserole?

You can reheat the casserole in the oven, covered with aluminum foil, at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the cheese to become tough and rubbery.

Can I make individual servings of the casserole?

Yes, you can make individual servings of the casserole in ramekins or small baking dishes. Simply assemble the casserole as directed, and bake until hot and bubbly.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card