Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. One dish that makes it special is the Broccoli and Cheese Casserole. This warm, cheesy dish pairs perfectly with turkey and stuffing, adding a lovely green touch to your holiday table. It’s easy to make and loved by kids and adults alike!
Why Make This Recipe
This Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is not only tasty but also a great way to sneak some vegetables into your holiday feast. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more moments with your loved ones during Thanksgiving.
How to Make Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Making this casserole is simple! Just follow these easy steps to enjoy a delightful dish that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients
- 2 (14 ounce) bags frozen broccoli florets, thawed
- 1.5 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted, divided
- 2 pounds processed cheese food (such as Velveeta®), sliced
- 2 sleeves buttery round crackers (such as Ritz®), crushed
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Place broccoli into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle 1 tablespoon melted butter over top, then add condensed soup. Stir until broccoli is coated with soup. Pack lightly to form a flat surface. Layer 1/2 of the cheese slices over broccoli mixture; set remaining cheese aside.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is bubbling, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and stir to blend melted cheese into the broccoli mixture. Layer with remaining cheese slices, sprinkle with crackers, and drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter.
- Return to the oven and bake until cheese on top begins to melt, about 15 minutes.
- Let casserole sit before serving until it thickens slightly, about 15 minutes.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole hot right out of the oven. It goes well with turkey, mashed potatoes, and other holiday classics. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for color and flavor before serving.
How to Store Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
- For an extra crunchy topping, consider adding more crushed crackers or some breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter.
- If you want a little kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- You can use fresh broccoli if you prefer, just steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by adding cooked chicken or ham for a heartier dish. You can also use different types of cheese to switch up the flavor. Try cheddar or pepper jack for a tasty twist!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and then bake it on Thanksgiving Day. Just cover it with foil in the fridge.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Make sure the edges are hot, and it has a nice golden top.
Can I freeze the Broccoli and Cheese Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. For best results, bake it straight from frozen, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole!
Thanksgiving Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 bags frozen broccoli florets, thawed
- 1.5 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounce each)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted divided
- 2 pounds processed cheese food (such as Velveeta®), sliced
- 2 sleeves buttery round crackers (such as Ritz®), crushed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Place broccoli into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Drizzle 1 tablespoon melted butter over top, then add condensed soup. Stir until broccoli is coated with soup. Pack lightly to form a flat surface.
- Layer 1/2 of the cheese slices over broccoli mixture; set remaining cheese aside.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is bubbling, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and stir to blend melted cheese into the broccoli mixture.
- Layer with remaining cheese slices, sprinkle with crushed crackers, and drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter.
- Return to the oven and bake until cheese on top begins to melt, about 15 minutes.
- Let casserole sit before serving until it thickens slightly, about 15 minutes.