Ready to make something delicious? This broccoli and cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is just the ticket. Super cheesy, super easy, and those crackers on top? Pure magic.
3-4crowns fresh broccolicooked and drained NOTE: You will need 3-4 crowns (not stalks). See notes to use frozen broccoli.
1cupreal mayonnaise
10.5ozcan of cream of chicken soup
4tablespoonsbuttermelted
1/4cupdiced white onion
2eggs
1teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonground black pepper
1-1/2cupshredded sharp cheddar cheese
1sleeveRitz crackerscrushed
Instructions
Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grab a 9 x 13 baking pan. Spray it with some nonstick cooking spray so everything slides out smoothly later.
Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the fresh broccoli crowns into bite-sized pieces, then either steam or boil them until they're soft. See notes if you are using bagged frozen broccoli.
Layer the Broccoli: Next, spread the cooked broccoli on the bottom of your casserole dish.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, and diced white onion. Mix everything together until well blended.
Add Eggs and Cheese: Into the same bowl, stir in both eggs, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure to mix it well.
Combine with Broccoli: Spread this cheesy mixture over the broccoli in the pan, smoothing out so all broccoli is smothered.
Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by crushed Ritz crackers.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until it's heated all the way through. As all ovens heat at different temperatures, it's best to watch yours so there is no overcooking.
Serve: Once baked, take broccoli casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes, then serve it up. You've just made a side dish that's sure to be a hit!
Video
Notes
A 9 x 13 casserole is a common size and can usually feed more than 6-8 people, especially if there are other dishes being served, like on holidays. Even though serving sizes are just rough estimates, you might be able to feed up to 10 people with this side dish if there's other food available.
How to steam fresh broccoli:
Wash and Cut: Rinse broccoli and cut into even pieces.
Boil Water: Fill a pot with an inch of water and bring to a boil.
Add Broccoli to Steamer: Put the broccoli in a steamer basket inside the pot.
Cover and Cook: Cover the pot and steam for 4-7 minutes until tender.
Check and Serve: Poke with a fork to see if it's done; season and serve.
How to use Frozen Broccoli:
You will need approx. 2-3 16 oz. frozen bags of broccoli for a full-sized casserole.
Microwave the Broccoli: Follow the package instructions to microwave the frozen florets or steam them until they're tender.
Drain Excess Water: Pat the cooked florets dry with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture.
Use in Casserole: Add the cooked and drained broccoli to your casserole recipe as directed.