Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of creamy cheese sauce with the satisfying crunch of crushed crackers, all enveloping tender broccoli florets. This casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a comfort food that warms the soul and brings people together around the dinner table. Casseroles, in general, are beloved for their convenience, versatility, and ability to feed a crowd with minimal effort. The combination of cheese and broccoli is a classic one, known for its creamy texture and savory flavor, while the addition of crackers adds a delightful contrast that elevates the entire dish. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is a timeless recipe that appeals to all ages, making it a favorite comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients Breakdown
The Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is made with a simple yet delicious blend of ingredients. The main components include fresh or frozen broccoli, Velveeta cheese, milk, cream, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, Dijon mustard, and crackers. The broccoli provides a healthy base, adding both flavor and texture, while Velveeta melts smoothly to create a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Milk and cream add to the sauce’s richness, with Dijon mustard giving a subtle tangy kick that balances the flavors. Crushed crackers, often buttery varieties like Ritz, add a crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
For substitutes, cheddar or Monterey Jack can replace Velveeta for a more robust cheese flavor. Gluten-free crackers can be used for those with dietary restrictions. When selecting ingredients, choose bright green broccoli with firm stems, and opt for high-quality cheese and crackers to enhance the overall taste of the casserole.
Essential Kitchen Tools
To make the Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools: a 13-by-9-inch baking dish, a large pot, a strainer, a plastic zip-top bag, and a mixing spoon. The baking dish is crucial for evenly baking the casserole, ensuring a golden, bubbly top. The large pot is used to melt the cheese and blend the sauce, while the strainer quickly drains the blanched broccoli, preserving its texture. A plastic bag is perfect for crushing crackers without making a mess, and a sturdy mixing spoon helps combine the ingredients smoothly for consistent results.
Preparing the Broccoli
To prepare the broccoli for the casserole, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and plunge the broccoli florets into the water. Boil for just 1 minute to achieve the perfect tenderness, then immediately strain the broccoli and transfer it to a bowl of ice water. This process, known as blanching, is crucial as it stops the cooking process, preserving the broccoli’s vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture. Blanching also helps the broccoli retain its nutrients and prevents it from becoming mushy during baking, ensuring a delightful contrast in the casserole.
Crushing the Crackers
To crush the crackers effectively, place them in a large plastic zip-top bag and seal it, removing as much air as possible. Use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently crush the crackers, applying even pressure. Aim to break the crackers into a mix of fine crumbs and larger chunks. Leaving some larger pieces is important as it adds a delightful texture to the casserole. The smaller crumbs blend into the cheese sauce, creating a cohesive dish, while the larger chunks provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
Cooking Instructions and Serving Suggestions
Making the Cheese Sauce
Start by cutting the Velveeta cheese into small chunks to help it melt evenly. In a large pot over medium heat, add the Velveeta, followed by 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of cream. Stir the mixture consistently as it begins to melt, using a wooden spoon or whisk to ensure the cheese doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Stirring constantly is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free sauce, as it helps the cheese and dairy blend seamlessly without separating.
Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the overall flavor. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that complements the creaminess of the cheese. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether. For added depth, mix in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, which adds a tangy, slightly sharp flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
Variations on the sauce can include using different cheeses, like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a more complex flavor. You can also increase the cayenne to 1 teaspoon if you enjoy a spicier dish, or add a pinch of paprika or chili powder for a smoky note.
Combining Ingredients
Once the cheese sauce is ready, add the blanched broccoli to the pot, stirring gently to coat the florets evenly with the sauce. Next, add half of the crushed crackers to the mixture, stirring again to distribute the crumbs throughout the casserole. This ensures that every bite contains a mix of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and crunchy crackers.
For an even distribution of ingredients, it’s important to mix thoroughly but carefully, so the broccoli doesn’t break apart too much. If you want to enhance the casserole, consider adding other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers, which can add extra flavor and texture. Alternatively, for a heartier dish, mix in cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even ham.
Baking the Casserole
Before combining everything, prepare a 13-by-9-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking and makes it easier to serve. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once the casserole is assembled.
Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed crackers over the top of the casserole, creating a crispy, golden crust as it bakes. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional black pepper or a bit of shredded cheese on top.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning, especially if your oven runs hot. If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the temperature by 25°F and check the casserole a few minutes earlier.
Serving the Casserole
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. For a visually appealing presentation, cut the casserole into squares and use a spatula to plate each portion. Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations and Customizations
Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a twist on the classic recipe, try using different cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you prefer a meatier dish, add cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled bacon to the casserole. For a healthier option, substitute low-fat milk and cheese, or use gluten-free crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables, such as cauliflower or spinach, to boost the nutritional content and variety of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for this casserole. Fresh broccoli often has a brighter flavor and a firmer texture, which can enhance the overall dish. To prepare fresh broccoli, simply cut the florets into bite-sized pieces and blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute before adding them to the cheese sauce. This brief boiling process helps soften the broccoli slightly while preserving its vibrant color and crisp-tender texture, making it perfect for the casserole.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you’re looking to replace Velveeta cheese, consider using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère as alternatives. Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor that adds depth to the dish, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier texture. Gruyère introduces a nutty richness that complements the broccoli beautifully. Keep in mind that these cheeses may not melt as smoothly as Velveeta, so adding a little extra milk or cream can help achieve a similar creamy consistency in the sauce.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time. To do so, assemble the casserole but hold off on adding the cracker topping. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator, add the cracker topping, and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
This casserole is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use vegetable-based ingredients. Ensure that the cheese you select does not contain animal rennet, which is sometimes used in cheese production. Velveeta and many other common cheeses are typically vegetarian, but it’s always best to check the label. If adding meat, such as chicken or bacon, simply omit these for a vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the regular crackers with gluten-free crackers available in most grocery stores. Ensure that any other ingredients, like the cheese and Dijon mustard, are also gluten-free. Most cheeses and dairy products are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good practice to check the labels to avoid any hidden gluten sources.
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Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole
Description
This Broccoli Cheese & Cracker Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and a crunchy cracker topping. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck. The combination of rich, melty Velveeta cheese and crispy, buttery crackers creates a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. With just the right amount of spice from cayenne pepper and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, this casserole will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- Fresh or frozen broccoli florets (approx. 4 cups)
- 12 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into chunks
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 cups crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or gluten-free variety)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the crackers in a large plastic zip-top bag and crush them slightly, leaving some large chunks. Set aside.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and plunge the broccoli into the water for 1 minute. Strain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to blanch. Set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the Velveeta cheese with milk and cream over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, cayenne, and Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine.
- Stir in the blanched broccoli and half of the crushed crackers into the cheese sauce. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cracker crumbs and sprinkle with additional black pepper, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be easily customized to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free crackers. You can also substitute Velveeta with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the casserole without the cracker topping, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping just before baking to maintain its crunchy texture.
