Broccoli Cheddar Ritz Casserole

Dive into a dish of pure comfort with this classic Broccoli Casserole. It features tender-crisp broccoli florets enveloped in a luxuriously smooth and sharp cheddar cheese sauce. The crowning glory is a buttery, golden-brown Ritz cracker topping that adds an irresistible crunch to every bite. This recipe is a guaranteed hit for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any time you crave a heartwarming side dish.

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Whether you're serving it alongside a roasted chicken for a Sunday dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this broccoli casserole stands out. It's the kind of nostalgic, satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table, combining simple ingredients to create something truly special.

Ingredients

• 5 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, about 2 medium heads)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 4

Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.

Step 5

Cook, whisking, until sauce thickens, 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 6

Combine broccoli and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing gently to coat. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 7

In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 8

Bake for 25–30 minutes, until topping is golden brown and casserole is bubbling.

Step 9

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a different taste. To make it a heartier main dish, add cooked, diced chicken to the casserole before baking.

Serviervorschläge

This casserole is a perfect side for roasted meats or as a featured dish in a holiday spread. For a beverage pairing, serve with a crisp Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine.

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Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy spoonful of this delicious homemade broccoli casserole. It's a timeless recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table, proving that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this dish. Thaw and drain thoroughly before baking to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery.

→ What other cheeses can I use besides sharp cheddar?

Swiss, Gruyère, or Colby Jack make excellent substitutes. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake when ready. Add the cracker topping just before baking for maximum crunch.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the sauce and use gluten-free crackers for the topping. The texture and flavor remain excellent.

→ What can I serve with broccoli casserole?

This pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, meatloaf, or ham. It's also a classic alongside Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham.