Description

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious side dish, look no further than this Creamy Broccoli Casserole. Packed with tender broccoli and creamy cheese, topped with a buttery cracker crunch, this dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any time you want to add a touch of comfort to your meal. It’s easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli
1 (6 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
½ cup cheese crackers
1–2 tablespoons instant minced onion or 1–2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon butter or margarine

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and achieves a perfect golden crust.

2. Prepare the Broccoli:
Prepare the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions, then drain thoroughly. This step is crucial to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.

3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, lightly beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, and instant minced onion or onion powder. Stir until well mixed.

4. Incorporate the Broccoli:
Fold the prepared broccoli into the mixture, ensuring that the broccoli is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 1½-quart baking dish. This helps the casserole cook evenly and makes cleanup easier.

6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, melt the butter or margarine. Crush the cheese crackers and mix them with the melted butter. This creates a flavorful, crispy topping for your casserole.

7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli mixture. This adds a delicious crunch and extra flavor to the casserole.

8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.

9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes serving easier.

Notes

Serving Tips:

Let it Cool Slightly: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Portioning: Use a sharp knife or spatula to cut the casserole into even portions. This will ensure that each serving has a good amount of both broccoli and topping.
Garnish: For added color and flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra cheese shreds before serving. This enhances the dish’s visual appeal and adds a touch of freshness.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole is fully cooled before transferring it to prevent condensation inside the container.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy topping, uncover during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
Freezing: If you need to freeze the casserole, cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated. It’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking for more even heating.
Avoiding Sogginess: If storing or reheating, be mindful of excess moisture. Placing a paper towel under the lid of the container can help absorb extra moisture and keep the topping crispy.

Additional Tips:

Portion Control: If you prefer to freeze individual portions, divide the casserole into smaller servings before freezing. This allows you to easily reheat only the amount you need.
Flavor Boost: Adding a dash of salt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs after reheating can help revive the flavors and make the casserole taste freshly made.