Make a creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crunchy cracker topping. This easy casserole recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday side dishes, or potluck gatherings. With a rich mushroom sauce and golden baked crust, this homemade broccoli casserole is a family favorite comfort food that pairs well with chicken, beef, or turkey.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 bunches)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
1 cup mayonnaise
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons dried minced onion
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1 cup cheese crackers, crushed

Instructions

Prepare the broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, eggs, minced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Assemble the casserole: Add the drained broccoli to the mixture and toss gently to coat. Transfer everything into a greased 2-quart (about 8-inch) casserole dish.
Add the topping: Sprinkle the crushed cheese crackers evenly over the top.
Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Tips

Make sure to drain the broccoli well to avoid excess water making the casserole runny.
For extra crunch, mix the crushed crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter before topping.
Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor and melting quality.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery.
Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Replace cheese crackers with panko breadcrumbs or Ritz crackers for a different topping texture.
Add cooked rice or quinoa to make it a more filling main dish.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the topping right before baking.

Can I freeze broccoli casserole?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Just thaw and drain well before adding it to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a holiday side dish alongside turkey, ham, or roast beef.
Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced weekday dinner.
Add to a potluck or family gathering — it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli casserole is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crunchy cracker crust for the perfect balance of textures. It’s easy to prepare, versatile with substitutions, and makes an excellent side dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.