Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers is a beloved dish that balances rich, creamy textures with a crunchy topping, making it a must-have for both family gatherings and weeknight dinners. This casserole combines nutrient-packed broccoli, melted cheese, and a flavorful topping of crushed buttery Ritz crackers, creating the perfect harmony of health and indulgence.
Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser at your next holiday meal or a simple, hearty side dish to pair with your favorite main course, this casserole delivers. With its versatile nature and straightforward preparation, it’s easy to see why this dish has become a staple in so many homes.
The Origins of Broccoli Casserole
Before diving into the recipe itself, it’s worth exploring the history of broccoli casserole, a dish that reflects America’s love for casseroles. Casseroles became popular in the United States in the early 20th century due to their affordability, ease of preparation, and ability to feed large groups. During the mid-20th century, companies like Campbell’s began promoting canned soups as quick-fix ingredients for casseroles, leading to a surge in their popularity.
Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable high in vitamins C and K, began to appear in many casserole recipes, particularly when paired with cheese, which added richness and appeal to a vegetable some people found too plain on its own. The addition of Ritz crackers came about as a solution for providing a buttery crunch to an otherwise soft dish. The use of these iconic crackers has since become a signature element of many casseroles, beloved for their crispiness and slight saltiness.
Why People Will Love This Recipe
- Balanced Comfort: This recipe combines the nutritious benefits of broccoli with the comforting flavors of cheese and buttery Ritz crackers. The creamy texture and crunchy topping appeal to both adults and kids alike.
- Quick and Easy: Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is easy to prepare. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable: You can make this dish your own by adding different cheeses, mixing in other vegetables, or even swapping out the Ritz crackers for alternative toppings like breadcrumbs or crushed pretzels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making it as a Thanksgiving side dish, a potluck contribution, or a cozy family dinner, broccoli casserole is versatile enough to fit any event or meal.
- Family Favorite: It’s a kid-friendly way to introduce more vegetables into a meal. The cheesy sauce and crunchy topping disguise the broccoli in a way that even picky eaters enjoy.
Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers Ingredients Breakdown
This casserole uses basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, but each one plays an essential role in making the dish rich and flavorful.
1. Broccoli
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh broccoli is often preferred for its texture and flavor. However, frozen broccoli works just as well, and it’s a convenient option that can save time. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it properly to prevent excess water from making the casserole soggy.
- Nutritional Benefits: Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins C, K, and A. It’s also high in fiber and contains powerful antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and support heart health.
2. Cheddar Cheese
- Sharp Cheddar: The sharpness of cheddar provides a nice contrast to the mildness of broccoli, adding depth of flavor. You can use other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses to change up the taste.
- Melting Quality: Cheddar is an ideal melting cheese, which helps to create the creamy sauce that envelops the broccoli. Its fat content makes it rich and satisfying.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Why It Works: This canned soup acts as a quick and convenient base for the casserole sauce, offering creaminess and a subtle mushroom flavor. If you prefer, you can make your own homemade cream of mushroom soup for a fresher taste.
- Alternatives: You can substitute cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile, or use a homemade béchamel sauce if you want to avoid canned soups altogether.
4. Sour Cream
- Tang and Creaminess: Sour cream adds a slight tang that balances out the richness of the cheese and crackers. It also gives the casserole a velvety texture.
- Healthier Options: For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. This will still provide the creamy texture but with fewer calories and more protein.
5. Ritz Crackers
- Buttery Crunch: Ritz crackers are iconic for their buttery flavor and crunchy texture, making them the perfect topping for this casserole. The contrast between the creamy filling and the crispy top is what makes this dish so satisfying.
- Substitutes: If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even potato chips for a fun twist.
6. Butter
- Richer Topping: Mixing melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers enhances their flavor and ensures they bake up golden and crispy. It also helps distribute the buttery flavor evenly across the top of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 16-ounce bags of frozen broccoli, thawed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant in color. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until the broccoli is fully coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish or even a main course!
Variations of Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers
One of the best things about broccoli casserole is its adaptability. You can modify the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
1. Cheese Variations
- Gruyère: For a more sophisticated flavor, swap the cheddar for Gruyère, a Swiss cheese that melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor.
- Mozzarella: For a gooier, stretchier casserole, consider using mozzarella cheese. Its mild flavor pairs well with other cheeses or herbs.
- Parmesan: If you prefer a sharper, saltier taste, mix in some Parmesan with the cheddar or use it as part of the topping for an extra-crispy finish.
2. Vegetable Add-Ins
- Cauliflower: Add half broccoli, half cauliflower for a combination that brings even more texture and variety.
- Carrots and Peas: For extra color and nutrients, stir in diced carrots and peas. This also adds a slight sweetness that balances the savory cheese sauce.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms are a great addition, especially if you’re a fan of earthy flavors. Fresh mushrooms will give the dish a homemade touch.
3. Protein Boost
- Chicken: Turn this side dish into a full meal by adding cooked, shredded chicken breast to the broccoli-cheese mixture before baking.
- Bacon: For a touch of indulgence, sprinkle crispy, crumbled bacon over the top of the casserole before adding the crackers. The smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Tofu: If you’re looking for a vegetarian protein, tofu can be cubed and added to the casserole for a heartier dish.
Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g
This casserole offers a balance between comfort and nutrition, thanks to the fiber and vitamins from the broccoli and the protein from the cheese. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using low-fat cheese and sour cream for a lighter version.
What to Serve With Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers
While broccoli casserole makes an excellent side dish on its own, pairing it with other complementary dishes can elevate your meal.
- Roast Chicken: The mild, savory flavor of roast chicken pairs well with the cheesy richness of the casserole.
- Grilled Pork Chops: For a heartier meal, serve the casserole alongside juicy, grilled pork chops, which offer a nice contrast to the creamy broccoli.
- Steak: The richness of a grilled steak or filet mignon can be balanced by the lighter texture and flavor of the broccoli casserole.
- Rice or Quinoa: For a lighter option, serve the casserole over a bed of rice or quinoa for a balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for indulgence, serve with crispy garlic bread for dipping into the creamy cheese sauce.
Sadie’s Tips for the Best Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers
- Pre-Cook the Broccoli: Even if you’re in a hurry, don’t skip this step. Pre-cooking the broccoli ensures that it stays tender and doesn’t turn mushy in the casserole.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grating your own cheese from a block (rather than using pre-shredded cheese) melts better and has a superior texture for the sauce.
- Customize the Topping: For a twist, mix half Ritz crackers and half French-fried onions for extra flavor and crunch.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything except the topping, store it in the fridge, then add the topping and bake when ready.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven. You want the topping golden brown but not burnt. If it’s browning too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with foil.
FAQ About Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers
1. Can I freeze broccoli casserole?
Yes, broccoli casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole but don’t add the cracker topping. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw, add the topping, and bake.
2. Can I use fresh broccoli?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is often preferred for its firmer texture, but frozen broccoli is a convenient and tasty alternative.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
4. Can I make a vegan version of broccoli casserole?
Yes! Use a plant-based cheese alternative, vegan cream of mushroom soup, and dairy-free butter. You can also swap out the sour cream for a dairy-free version or cashew cream.
5. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels, or cornflakes can all be used as substitutes for Ritz crackers if you want a different texture or flavor.
6. How do I store leftover broccoli casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
7. What can I serve with broccoli casserole?
It pairs well with roast meats like chicken or pork, or you can serve it alongside a light salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal.
8. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or gluten-free crackers for the topping, and check that your soup is gluten-free as well.
9. Is broccoli casserole healthy?
While rich and indulgent, broccoli casserole provides important nutrients from the broccoli. You can make it lighter by using reduced-fat cheese, sour cream, and soup.
10. Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is highly adaptable! Cauliflower, green beans, or a mix of veggies can be used to add variety and color.
Conclusion
Broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers is more than just a side dish—it’s a timeless comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this casserole is easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to please. Its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy cracker topping make it a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Try it today, and see why this recipe has earned its place in homes and kitchens across the country!