This quick and creamy broccoli cheese casserole is a weeknight game-changer, combining tender broccoli with a cheesy, flavorful sauce in just 30 minutes.
Packed with fiber-rich vegetables, plant-based protein from cheese, and heart-healthy fats, it’s a low-carb, nutrient-dense side that pleases kids and adults alike.
Perfect for easy dinners, meal prep, or a wholesome addition to any table.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Equipment
- 2-quart baking dish
- Large microwave-safe bowl
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Grater for cheese
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets small pieces work best
- Olive oil spray as needed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Diamond Crystal or ½ teaspoon other
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for slight heat
- 1 cup cheddar cheese grated (divided)
- 1 tablespoon water optional, to thin sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, prepare a 2-quart baking dish by lightly spraying it with olive oil. This step ensures the casserole won’t stick and helps the top develop a golden, slightly crispy finish. Make sure to cover the entire interior, including corners and sides, for even baking and easy serving.
- Steam Broccoli for Tender-Crisp Texture: Place the fresh broccoli florets into a large microwave-safe bowl. Add about 2 tablespoons of water to generate steam. Cover the bowl loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Microwave on high for approximately 3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still retains a slight crispness. The broccoli should be bright green, firm to the bite, and avoid overcooking, which can result in a mushy texture.
- Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, then stir until fully incorporated. Fold in half of the grated cheddar cheese. If the sauce seems too thick, add about 1 tablespoon of water to thin slightly. The goal is a creamy, flavorful sauce that will coat the broccoli evenly.
- Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Once the broccoli is tender-crisp, drain thoroughly to remove excess water. Transfer the broccoli into the prepared sauce bowl. Gently fold the broccoli with the sauce until every floret is coated evenly, taking care not to break the florets. This ensures consistent flavor and creaminess throughout the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole in Baking Dish: Transfer the coated broccoli and sauce mixture into the pre-sprayed baking dish, spreading it evenly. Lightly spray the top with olive oil to enhance browning and prevent sticking. Sprinkle the remaining half of the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a golden, melted crust.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the casserole on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. The top should be melted, bubbling, and lightly golden brown. Monitor closely toward the end to prevent over-browning, and enjoy the aroma of baked cheese and roasted broccoli filling your kitchen.
- Optional Broil for Extra Browning: For a more deeply golden top, switch the oven to broil for 2–3 minutes. Keep the casserole under close observation to avoid burning. This step caramelizes the cheese slightly, adding texture and visual appeal while keeping the broccoli tender underneath.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Serving immediately may result in a slightly runny texture, so this resting period ensures each bite is creamy yet firm.
- Serve and Enjoy: Use a spatula to portion the casserole onto plates or a serving dish. Enjoy it as a side with roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a standalone vegetarian option. It also works perfectly for meal prep or potlucks, making it a versatile addition to any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and vibrant color; frozen broccoli can be used but must be thawed and drained thoroughly.
- Grate the cheese yourself with a medium grater for optimal melt and creaminess.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your family’s spice preference—just a pinch adds warmth without overpowering.
- For a lighter version, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt while maintaining creaminess.
- Small florets cook more evenly and absorb the sauce better than larger pieces.
- Lightly spraying the top with olive oil before baking helps achieve a golden, slightly crispy crust.
- Gentle tossing ensures the broccoli stays intact and tender during mixing and baking.
- The casserole is versatile: can be served as a side, main with protein, or part of a meal prep plan.
Chef’s Secrets for Creamy Perfection
The key to a rich and creamy broccoli cheese casserole is balancing the sauce and cheese.
Mix half the cheese into the sauce to infuse flavor throughout, and reserve the other half for the topping to create a beautifully melted, golden crust.
Lightly spraying the top with olive oil before baking enhances browning and prevents sticking.
For a slightly lighter version, try substituting part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt—it adds protein and tang while keeping the creaminess intact.
Gentle handling of the broccoli ensures it stays tender-crisp and doesn’t become mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
This casserole shines as a versatile side dish for any meal.
Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pan-seared fish, or grilled steak for a complete, balanced dinner.
For a vegetarian meal, pair it with quinoa, brown rice, or a simple grain salad to add protein and texture.
It also works beautifully as a potluck dish or a holiday side, as the cheesy topping appeals to both kids and adults.
Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave at 50% power to prevent overcooking.
For meal prep or longer storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
If the topping has browned, a quick 2-minute broil will refresh the cheese’s golden color.
Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but it’s essential to thaw it completely and drain excess water to prevent a soggy casserole. Fresh broccoli gives a firmer texture and brighter flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.
2. Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
Absolutely! This casserole is naturally low in carbohydrates, high in fiber, and includes good fats from the cheese and mayonnaise, making it suitable for low-carb and keto meal plans.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Assemble the broccoli and sauce in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold.
4. How can I make it extra cheesy or crispy?
For a cheesier casserole, increase the cheese in both the sauce and topping by ¼ cup.
To achieve a crunchier top, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a small amount of melted butter over the cheese before baking.
5. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Certainly! Adding cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled bacon turns this side dish into a hearty main. Increase the sauce slightly to ensure every floret is coated and maintain the creamy consistency.
