Sunday Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Oven Food

Every Sunday, I look forward to preparing my creamy broccoli casserole. It’s a dish that has become a staple in our family meals, capturing the essence of comfort food. The creamy sauce and tender broccoli create a harmony of flavor that even the pickiest eaters enjoy. With vibrant green broccoli and a sprinkle of cheese on top, it's not only delicious but also a quick weeknight savior. This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, where it always gets rave reviews.

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:45:34.789Z

This casserole is a dish I perfected over numerous weekends, gradually refining the creamy sauce and broccoli ratio. The secret is to steam the broccoli just right so it retains its vibrant color and crunch. I often add a hint of garlic for an extra depth of flavor, which elevates the dish without overwhelming it.

One tip I’ve discovered is to use a mix of cheeses for that melty, gooey texture. A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the right balance of flavor and creaminess, making this casserole a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone comes back for seconds of.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that satisfies every comfort food craving
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Health-conscious with vibrant broccoli, packing a nutritional punch

      

Choosing the Right Broccoli

When selecting broccoli for your casserole, look for florets that are a vibrant green with tight buds. This ensures that they are fresh and packed with flavor. Avoid any broccoli with yellowing florets or brown spots, as these are signs of aging. To prepare, cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces for even cooking, making it easier to serve and eat once baked.

For a twist on flavor and texture, consider incorporating broccoli stems. Simply peel the tough outer layer and dice the inner part into smaller pieces. They will soften nicely in the casserole and provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce.

Enhancing the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of your casserole. To enhance its flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard. These additions complement the cheeses beautifully and add a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

If you'd like a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can warm things up without overpowering the dish. Just a small amount will create a pleasant contrast to the richness of the cheese and cream.

Making Ahead and Storing

This creamy broccoli casserole can easily be made ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes ahead of time to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. The casserole can also be frozen before baking. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to three months, then bake from frozen, increasing the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious casserole:

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your creamy broccoli casserole:

Steam the Broccoli

Start by steaming the broccoli florets for about 5-7 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Avoid overcooking to keep them vibrant and crunchy.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

In a large baking dish, combine the steamed broccoli with the creamy sauce. Stir until all the broccoli is well coated with the sauce.

Add Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole, adding a little more cheese if desired for extra melty goodness.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include cooked chicken or bacon pieces in the casserole before baking. Additionally, try different cheese combinations based on your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, to truly enjoy its creamy texture and flavor. Try pairing it with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. The freshness of the salad will complement the creamy broccoli beautifully.

For a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or roasted salmon on the side. These options add protein and round out the meal without competing with the main flavors of the casserole.

Dietary Modifications

For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat sour cream and cheese selections. Greek yogurt can also be an excellent alternative for sour cream, offering protein while maintaining creaminess. Make sure to adjust any seasonings slightly, as reduced-fat ingredients can sometimes lower the flavor intensity.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This maintains the casserole's crunch and ensures everyone can enjoy this family favorite without worry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze leftover casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or as a side dish to a festive meal. It’s a versatile addition to any table.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if preferred. This will still give you that creamy texture.