Description

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Topping is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker crust. It’s a satisfying weeknight meal loved by families.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (295g) cream of mushroom or chicken soup
0.5 cup mayonnaise
30 Ritz crackers
0.25 cup unsalted butter

Instructions

Prep Broccoli: If using fresh, steam or boil florets until tender-crisp (about 3-5 minutes), then drain well. If frozen, thaw completely and press out excess water; roughly chop if florets are too large.
Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mayonnaise, and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and evenly blended. (If it looks too thick, splash in 1-2 tablespoons milk.)
Combine and Transfer: Gently fold the prepped broccoli into the creamy cheese mixture until well coated. Pour the entire mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
Prepare Ritz Topping: Crush Ritz crackers coarsely (about 1.5 cups crushed). Melt 0.25 cup butter, then mix it with the crushed crackers until they are evenly coated and crumbly.
Bake Casserole: Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese over the broccoli mixture in the dish. Evenly spread the buttery Ritz topping over the cheese layer. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is beautifully golden brown.

Notes

Avoid overcooking broccoli initially; it will continue to cook in the oven, keeping its vibrant color. Consider adding garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost. Gluten-free crackers, dairy-free cheese, or plant-based cream soup can be used for dietary needs. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 32 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (220 g)
Calories: 400 calories
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: broccoli cheese casserole, Ritz topping, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comforting, creamy, crunchy, family-friendly, casserole, cheesy