Imagine a dish that combines the wholesome goodness of fresh broccoli with the creamy, cheesy comfort that instantly transports you back to grandma's kitchen. Mom Redd's Broccoli Cheese Casserole is not just a recipe; it's a culinary hug that promises to elevate your dinner game and leave everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick side dish or a comfort food enthusiast, this mouthwatering casserole is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup crushed crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fresh broccoli florets and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain the broccoli and set it aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and chopped onion. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the blanched broccoli florets to the bowl with the soup mixture. Gently fold the broccoli into the mixture until it is evenly coated.
- Next, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and fold it in until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. This will create a crunchy topping for your casserole.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the crushed cracker and butter mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli casserole. This will add a delicious crunch and flavor.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve Mom Redd's Broccoli Cheese Casserole warm as a delightful side dish or a main course. Enjoy!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. The texture and taste will be significantly better.
- Don't overcook the broccoli during blanching - you want it bright green and slightly crisp, not mushy.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like sharp cheddar or a blend for more complex flavor.
- If you want extra crunch, mix some toasted sliced almonds into your cracker topping.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a healthier version, substitute low-fat mayo and use whole grain crackers.
- This casserole reheats beautifully - store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 323kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 7g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
