Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole transforms humble broccoli into an irresistibly creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

What makes this casserole special? It’s the perfect balance of sharp cheddar sauce (made from scratch, no canned soup here!) and tender broccoli, all topped with a buttery, crispy cracker crust that adds the most satisfying crunch to every bite.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 2 pounds broccoli florets, roughly chopped (about 8 cups)
• ¼ cup flour
• ¼ cup butter
• 1¾ cups half & half
• 8 ounces (2¼ cups) freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve butter crackers (like Ritz, about 30 crackers)
• ¼ cup butter, melted

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This size ensures the perfect casserole depth for even cooking.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green but still firm. Don’t overcook – the broccoli will continue cooking in the oven. Immediately drain and shock in cold water to stop cooking.
3. Create the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup butter. Whisk in flour, garlic powder, and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. This roux is crucial for a smooth, thick sauce.
4. Slowly whisk in half & half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups cheese (reserve remaining ¼ cup), salt, and pepper. The sauce should be smooth and silky.
5. Combine sauce and broccoli, ensuring each floret is well-coated. Transfer to prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
6. For topping, crush crackers into coarse crumbs (leave some larger pieces for texture). Mix with melted butter and remaining cheese. Sprinkle evenly over casserole.
7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbling at edges and topping is golden brown. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving – this allows the sauce to set properly.

Smart Swaps

• Use cauliflower for 25% fewer carbs per serving
• Substitute gluten-free crackers and flour for celiac-friendly version
• Try Gruyere or Fontina cheese for sophisticated flavor variation

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

• Replace half & half with unsweetened almond milk mixed with 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• Use crushed pork rinds instead of crackers to reduce carbs by 15g per serving
• Add ½ cup chopped almonds to topping for slower glucose release

Pro Tips

• Shred cheese from a block – pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that affect melting
• Blanch broccoli in salted water (1 tablespoon salt per quart) for better flavor
• Make ahead: Prepare up to topping step, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then top and bake