Southern Broccoli Casserole
This Southern Broccoli Casserole is packed with tender broccoli, creamy chicken soup, and a cheesy, buttery cracker topping. It’s a dish that’s always a hit at family dinners and potlucks. It’s comforting, flavorful, and super easy to whip up when you need something quick but tasty.
Broccoli casserole is such a versatile dish—you can serve it as a side for holidays or throw it together for a casual weeknight dinner. It adds a nice veggie option to any meal without being complicated, and everyone loves that cheesy, crunchy topping. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home cooking without all the fuss.
Why you’ll love this Southern Broccoli Casserole
Why We All Love Broccoli Casserole:
This dish has been a favorite in our home for years because of how simple and delicious it is. The creamy, cheesy filling paired with that buttery cracker topping always makes everyone come back for seconds. The flavors are cozy but not too heavy—perfect for pairing with any meal!
Ingredients Needed for Sausage Casserole
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen both work great here. You’ll want them cooked until just tender.
- Cream of Chicken soup: This gives the casserole that creamy base and a boost of savory flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Adds a little extra creaminess and richness.
- Egg: Helps everything hold together.
- Cheddar cheese: Can’t have a Southern casserole without some cheddar! It melts beautifully and adds that cheesy goodness.
- Ritz crackers: Crushed and mixed with butter for that golden, crunchy topping.
- Butter: Just enough to give those crackers a perfect crisp texture.
How to make Southern Broccoli Casserole
**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**
Cook the broccoli in the microwave until tender and set aside.
Mix together the soup, mayo, egg, and cheese in a large bowl.
Fold in the cooked broccoli.
Pour the mixture into your baking dish.
Top with the rest of the cheese, then the buttered cracker crumbs.
Bake until bubbly and golden on top.
Variations
- Add some bacon: Crumbled bacon on top or mixed in adds a smoky, salty flavor.
- Use different veggies: You can swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or do a mix of both!
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
- Swap the cheese: Try using sharp white cheddar, pepper jack, or even a little parmesan for a twist.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and double-check the soup ingredients for a gluten-free version of the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- With Roasted Chicken: This casserole pairs beautifully with a juicy roasted chicken.
- As a Holiday Side: Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, next to Sweet Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- With Grilled Steak: It adds a creamy balance to a bold, grilled steak.
- In a Potluck Spread: Always a hit at potlucks—no one can resist that crunchy topping!
- With Leftovers: This reheats really well, so it’s perfect for meal prepping too.
Storage and Freezing
- How should I store Southern Broccoli Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze Southern Broccoli Casserole?
You can freeze the entire casserole before baking it! Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Tips & Tricks
- Pre-cook the broccoli: Be sure to cook your broccoli before mixing it into the casserole so it doesn’t end up undercooked.
- Use fresh cheese: Grate your own cheese for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Make it ahead: You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Go heavy on the cracker topping: If you’re a fan of the crispy topping, don’t be shy—add a little extra!
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the baking time. You want it bubbly and golden but not dry.
Recommended
More Easy Sides
FAQ
Southern Broccoli Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam or microwave the broccoli florets until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, egg, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Fold the cooked broccoli into the mixture, making sure the broccoli is well coated.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
