Are you ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into a mind-blowing dish that will have everyone begging for seconds? This Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is not just another side dish - it's a creamy, crunchy, cheesy masterpiece that will revolutionize how you think about broccoli forever! Imagine tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich, velvety sauce, topped with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust that provides the most irresistible crunch. Whether you're a picky eater, a busy parent, or just someone who loves incredible food, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut any large florets into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. You can use a steamer basket or microwave with a little water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and milk. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup mixture and stir until evenly distributed. The cheese will help create a creamy and rich texture.
- Gently fold the steamed broccoli florets into the cheese and soup mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated and slightly clumpy.
- Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli casserole, creating a golden, crispy topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnished with additional fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use fresh broccoli and don't overcook it - you want a vibrant green color and slight crispness.
- Grate your own cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother, more melting texture.
- Make sure to drain the steamed broccoli thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
- For extra richness, you can substitute some of the milk with sour cream.
- To keep the Ritz cracker topping extra crispy, add it in the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated - just add the cracker topping right before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
