Name: Broccoli Casserole With Ritz Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds (900g) broccoli, cut into small florets; 4 tablespoons butter, divided; ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups (350ml) milk (2%); ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers

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Broccoli casserole is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to the dining table. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and the indulgent crunch of a Ritz cracker topping, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy dinner at home. Today, we’re diving into an easy and delightful recipe that combines tender broccoli with a savory cheese sauce, all enveloped in a crunchy topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This broccoli casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s an experience! The blend of creamy cheese with the bright, earthy taste of broccoli makes each bite a joyous celebration of flavors. Furthermore, the Ritz topping adds an irresistible buttery crunch that perfectly complements the smooth and cheesy filling. Whether you’re trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet or simply need a delicious addition to your meal repertoire, this dish is a win-win. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for cooks of any skill level!

Ingredients

2 pounds (900g) broccoli, cut into small florets (1 inch pieces)
4 tablespoons butter, divided
½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (350ml) milk (we used 2%)
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or any buttery or cheesy crackers

How To Make Broccoli Casserole With Ritz Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain again and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and stir to combine. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cheese

Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles, which should take about 5 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, and grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat the broccoli evenly with the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy broccoli mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. In a separate bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the crushed Ritz crackers until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the cracker topping over the broccoli and cheese mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cheese sauce.
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for a little kick.
If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese without losing too much creaminess.
For added texture, throw in some cooked chicken or cooked quinoa for a heartier dish!

Variations and Customizations

Swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus.
Add cooked bacon or ham for a delightful meaty twist!
Experiment with different types of crackers; cheesy or spiced crackers can add unique flavors.
Mix in some herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

How to Store Leftovers

Broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you plan to make it ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole without baking and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve!

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the cheese sauce.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese?

Yes! You can use vegetarian cheese alternatives that melt well if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.

Can I freeze the broccoli casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Once assembled, wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed to ensure it is heated thoroughly.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Casserole With Ritz Topping is not only easy to make but is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With layers of creamy cheese and perfectly tender broccoli topped with that iconic buttery crunch, it’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to the table. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this casserole will surely become a cherished recipe in your home. So gather your ingredients, get your baking dish ready, and whip up a batch of this comforting casserole today! You won’t regret it. Enjoy!