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Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the kind of creamy comforting dish that makes an appearance at every family gathering in my home. With crisp-tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese and a lusciously simple homemade cream of chicken soup sauce, it is always a side dish that gets heaps of praise. Whether you are bringing something cozy to a potluck or looking for a weeknight dish to sneak more veggies onto the table, this hits all the marks.
When I first tried making this dish for Thanksgiving, I worried my kids would protest the big broccoli pieces. But once everything went bubbly and cheesy in the oven, even the pickiest eaters cleaned their plates and came back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Fresh broccoli florets: provide texture and color look for bright green crowns without yellowing
- Cheddar cheese: gives sharp creamy flavor always freshly grate it for the best melt
- Chicken broth: forms the rich base of the homemade sauce use low sodium for better seasoning control
- Plain Greek yogurt: makes the casserole creamy and tangy go for full fat for best texture
- All purpose flour: thickens the sauce sift it to avoid lumps
- Milk: lightens the creaminess I like two percent for a balanced flavor
- Yellow onion: adds subtle sweetness look for a firm onion with even skin
- Onion powder and garlic powder: round out the flavor profile buy fresh containers to avoid mustiness
- Salt and black pepper: bring everything together taste and adjust before baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit then coat a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to keep the casserole from sticking
- Make the Sauce Base:
- Combine chicken broth and a quarter cup of milk in a medium saucepan over medium high heat bring this to a low boil then reduce heat so it gently simmers
- Mix the Thickener:
- In a small bowl whisk together flour onion powder garlic powder salt and black pepper then pour in the remaining half cup of milk whisk until it is silky smooth and free of lumps
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Add the flour and milk mixture to the simmering broth whisk continuously as it cooks let it slowly bubble and thicken for about five minutes until you have a creamy sauce that coats a spoon
- Combine and Cool:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the thickened sauce cool about ten minutes this helps keep the yogurt from curdling
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large bowl combine your cooked chopped broccoli the cooled sauce Greek yogurt and chopped onion gently mix everything together making sure all pieces are coated evenly
- Layer the Cheese:
- Pour the broccoli mixture into the baking dish and spread it into an even layer then evenly scatter the freshly grated cheddar cheese over the top
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Slide the dish into your preheated oven uncovered and bake for twenty minutes you want the cheese melted and edges bubbling remove and serve immediately while hot
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My favorite part is how the cheddar cheese melts into gooey ribbons over the fresh broccoli. It reminds me of the year my sister called dibs on the crispy edges so now I always make extra for her.
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It will keep up to four days in the fridge and reheats wonderfully in the oven or microwave. For longer storage freeze individual portions tightly wrapped and thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream if that is what you have. You can use vegetable broth and skip chicken entirely for a vegetarian version. Extra sharp white cheddar or Monterey Jack add a nice twist. For a gluten free version use a one to one gluten free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this with roast chicken turkey or ham for a classic holiday spread. On weekdays I love serving it with baked potatoes or a crisp green salad. Try topping with crushed crackers or toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch and flavor.
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Commonly Asked Questions
- → How can I make the casserole extra creamy?
Use full-fat Greek yogurt and freshly grated cheddar for a rich, creamy texture. Let the sauce cool slightly before combining for best results.
- → Can I make the dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything except the cheese topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add cheese and bake just before serving.
- → What toppings add extra crunch?
Top with a layer of buttery, crushed crackers or panko for a delicious golden crunch before baking.
- → Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?
Sour cream works well as a substitute, providing a similar creamy tang to the broccoli and cheese bake.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, allow it to cool completely, then freeze tightly sealed. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best texture.