Ever wondered how to transform ordinary broccoli into a dish that even the most adamant vegetable-avoiders will devour? A broccoli casserole might be your answer! This nostalgic comfort food combines crisp-tender broccoli with a creamy sauce and that irresistible buttery Ritz cracker topping that crunches with each delightful bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Let’s dive into how you can create this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen!

Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets (or 2 bags frozen broccoli, thawed)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise (not Miracle Whip)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers (about 60 crackers)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Substitution tip: Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or celery if preferred. For a tangier flavor, use half sour cream and half mayo instead of all mayonnaise.

Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

This recipe comes together surprisingly quickly – most of your time is spent on the initial prep work, making it perfect for busy evenings when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities but still want something homemade.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Broccoli

If using fresh broccoli, trim into bite-sized florets and blanch in boiling salted water for 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Move it straight into an ice bath so the cooking comes to a complete stop. Drain thoroughly and pat dry (excess moisture is the enemy of a good casserole!).

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, grated cheese, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper, remembering that the crackers and soup already contain salt.

Step 3: Combine and Transfer

Fold the broccoli gently into the creamy mixture until evenly coated. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading into an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Iconic Topping

Crush the Ritz crackers in a ziplock bag using a rolling pin – but don’t pulverize them! You want a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks for textural contrast. Mix with the melted butter until all crumbs are moistened.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the broccoli. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is bubbling slightly.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Vitamin C: 135% of daily value
• Calcium: 18% of daily value

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, use reduced-fat cheese, and cut the Ritz crackers by half, mixing them with whole wheat panko breadcrumbs. For a keto-friendly option, replace the crackers with crushed pork rinds mixed with almond flour. Vegans can use plant-based mayo, dairy-free cheese, and cream of celery soup with nutritional yeast.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines alongside a roasted chicken or holiday ham. For a complete weeknight dinner, pair with a simple rotisserie chicken and quick-cooking quinoa. For an elegant touch, serve in individual ramekins with a sprinkle of fresh chives or dill as garnish. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, cheesy flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the broccoli-drying step, which leads to a watery casserole
2. Over-cooking the broccoli before baking, resulting in mushy texture
3. Using bagged, pre-shredded cheese can cause problems because the anti-caking powders on it keep it from melting the way fresh-grated cheese does.
4. Crushing the crackers too finely, which eliminates that wonderful textural contrast

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This casserole keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For freezing, prepare but don’t bake – cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. The cracker topping might lose some crunch upon reheating, so consider adding a fresh layer of buttered crumbs when rewarming leftovers.

Conclusion

This Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Casserole brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special – the kind of dish that creates food memories and becomes a requested favorite at family gatherings. The contrast between the creamy, cheesy interior and that irresistible buttery crunch on top simply can’t be beat. Whether you’re introducing vegetables to picky eaters or serving comfort food to discerning guests, this recipe delivers every time.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything except the cracker topping up to 24 hours in advance. Sprinkle the topping on right before it goes in the oven so it stays nice and crisp.

Why did my casserole turn out watery?
This typically happens when the broccoli isn’t dried properly after blanching or when frozen broccoli isn’t thoroughly thawed and drained.

Can I mix in some protein if I want this to feel more like a full meal?
Absolutely! Diced chicken, turkey, or ham work beautifully. Add about 2 cups of cooked, diced meat to the mixture before baking.

Is there a way to make this recipe without using mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

How do I know when the casserole is fully baked and ready to come out of the oven?
Look for a golden brown top and bubbling around the edges. If you insert a knife in the center, it should feel hot to the touch when removed.