Name: Awesome Broccoli-Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg, beaten; ¼ cup chopped onion; 3 (10 ounce) packages frozen broccoli florets; 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 dash paprika

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This broccoli-cheese casserole has been a family favorite for decades, and I love making it when I want something comforting, cheesy, and irresistible. It’s a dish I can serve as a side for Thanksgiving, alongside a Christmas ham, or even as a main dish when I bulk it up with extras. The creamy mushroom base, melty cheddar, and tender broccoli make it hard to stop at just one serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how easy this casserole is to prepare — it’s really just a mix, stir, and bake situation. The combination of cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and cheddar creates a luscious texture that coats every bite of broccoli. It’s one of those dishes that even picky eaters happily eat, and I can change it up with different toppings or extra veggies when I feel creative. The recipe also reheats beautifully, so I can make it ahead or enjoy leftovers without losing flavor.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, beaten
¼ cup chopped onion
3 (10 ounce) packages frozen broccoli florets
8 ounces shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
salt and pepper to taste
1 dash paprika

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a medium mixing bowl, I whisk together the condensed soup, mayonnaise, egg, and onion until combined.
I place the frozen broccoli florets in a large bowl, breaking up any clumps. Then I add the soup mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
I mix in the shredded cheese, spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
I bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the casserole is golden brown on top and the cheese is melted.
I serve it hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

I sometimes swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of broccoli, cream of onion, or even Alfredo sauce for a richer taste.
Fresh broccoli works beautifully too; I just steam it lightly before mixing it in.
For a crispy topping, I add crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions before baking.
Mixing in cooked chicken, ham, or even rice turns it into a hearty main dish.
A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika adds a bit of heat.

storage/reheating

Once the casserole cools, I store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave single portions for quick meals. If I’ve added a crispy topping, I prefer reheating in the oven to keep it crunchy.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. I bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Can I freeze broccoli-cheese casserole?

I can freeze it after baking, but the texture of the broccoli may soften. I wrap it well in foil and store it up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses work well too.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

I use a gluten-free condensed soup and make sure any toppings, like crackers, are also gluten-free.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, I steam fresh broccoli until just tender before adding it to the mix, so it stays vibrant and not mushy during baking.

Conclusion

I love this broccoli-cheese casserole because it’s versatile, easy to make, and always a hit at the table. Whether I’m serving it for a holiday, potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, it delivers comfort in every bite. The combination of creamy sauce, cheesy broccoli, and golden baked goodness is hard to resist — and I know I’ll be making it for many years to come.