Broccoli and Cheddar Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 35 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Looking for a comforting dish that's easy to whip up and sure to please the family? This Broccoli and Cheddar Delight combines rich flavors and a creamy texture for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, it's simple yet indulgent.

Ingredients for Broccoli and Cheddar Delight

Broccoli is the star of this dish, providing a nutritious base that's full of vitamins and fiber. You want it just tender, so it melds beautifully with the creamy sauce. Cheddar cheese adds that irresistible cheesy goodness, melting into the dish for a savory depth of flavor. Cream of mushroom soup acts as a creamy binder, bringing everything together with a subtle umami note. Mayonnaise adds richness and a smooth texture, while the egg helps to set the casserole. A touch of salt and black pepper balances the flavors. For the crunchy topping, butter crackers and melted butter create a golden, buttery crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture.
  • Try using sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
  • Steam the broccoli instead of boiling to retain more nutrients.
  • Crush the crackers in a ziplock bag for easy cleanup and minimal mess.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a simple tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you're serving it as a main, a side of roasted potatoes or garlic bread complements it well. For a bit of variety, try serving alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the casserole, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Broccoli and Cheddar Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you just enough time to prep the ingredients. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish — a little non-stick spray or butter will do the trick. Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add your chopped broccoli. Let it boil or steam for about 5 minutes until it's just turning tender. Be sure to drain it well to avoid any excess water in your dish.

In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will coat your broccoli and cheese nicely. Add in the drained broccoli and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Gently stir until everything is evenly combined.

Transfer the broccoli mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out so it's nice and even. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for that gooey, cheesy finish. In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top of your casserole for a deliciously crispy topping.

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's done when the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving — this will make it easier to slice and serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup.
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
  • Great way to sneak more veggies into your diet.
  • Perfectly creamy with a crunchy topping.
  • Kid-approved for even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

4 cups chopped fresh broccoli
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup crushed butter crackers
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large pot, boil or steam broccoli until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper.
4. Mix in the drained broccoli and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly coated.
5. Spread the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

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