Save This broccoli and cheddar casserole delivers the comfort of classic American home cooking with a cheesy creamy base and a crisp buttery cornflake topping. It is the kind of recipe I turn to when I need a crowd pleasing side that feels special yet simple enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner or holiday table.
I started making this when my kids declared they hated broccoli but when I appeared at the table with bubbling cheese and a golden crunch on top the whole dish disappeared. Now it is a regular request for both potlucks and lazy Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
- Fresh broccoli florets: The star of the dish Choose heads that are firm bright green and show no yellowing
- Yellow onion: Adds aromatic sweetness Use one that feels heavy for its size and has smooth skin
- Garlic: Gives depth and a savory base Go for plump, unblemished cloves
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Packs bold flavor and melts smoothly Buy a block and shred it yourself for best texture
- Sour cream: Brings tang and creaminess Full fat delivers the richest taste
- Whole milk: Gives moisture and a silkier sauce Use fresh milk for best results
- Unsalted butter: Works in both the base and topping Look for pale yellow sticks with clean dairy aroma
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Binds the mixture with a velvety finish Opt for low sodium if you like
- Dijon mustard: Adds a little zip and subtle heat Reach for a jar with real mustard seeds
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors Use kosher or sea salt for best control
- Freshly ground black pepper: Balances the richness Whole peppercorns give the most flavor when ground fresh
- Cornflakes: Turn crisp and golden on top Choose a plain variety that stays crunchy in milk and check for freshness by the best by date
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius and grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish generously so nothing sticks later
- Blanch the Broccoli:
- Bring salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot Drop in all the broccoli florets and let them cook for two to three minutes just until they turn bright green and slightly tender Drain quickly and set aside to keep the color and texture
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about three minutes stirring until translucent and soft Add in the garlic and let it sizzle for just one minute to release its aroma without browning
- Combine Everything:
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into a large mixing bowl Add the blanched broccoli shredded cheddar cheese sour cream milk condensed soup Dijon mustard salt and pepper Stir until every bit of broccoli is coated with cheesy sauce
- Fill the Baking Dish:
- Spread the cheesy broccoli mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish pressing it gently so the top is fairly level
- Make the Cornflake Topping:
- In a small bowl combine the crushed cornflakes and the melted butter Toss until every flake is coated in butter for maximum crackle then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:
- Slide the dish onto the oven’s center rack and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until you see the edges bubbling and the cornflakes on top are golden brown
- Let It Rest:
- Take the casserole out and let it cool for five minutes so the cheese sets up just enough to serve tidy squares
Save My favorite part is the sharp cheddar I always buy an extra aged variety because the boldness comes through every creamy bite. One Thanksgiving my dad asked for seconds and thirds after swearing he didn’t like broccoli so now it’s officially on our family’s holiday menu.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat cover with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven for fifteen minutes or until hot throughout. The topping will crisp up again nicely.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use frozen broccoli just thaw and blot dry before stirring in. For a mushroom free option try a cream of celery soup or your favorite homemade béchamel sauce. Swap cheddar out for Monterey jack or half Gruyère for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
I love this alongside maple glazed carrots and roasted potatoes at a family dinner. Make it a main by stirring in some cooked brown rice or topping with sliced hard boiled eggs for extra protein. This also works beautifully as a brunch bake.
Cultural Notes
Broccoli casseroles like this started on American tables in the mid twentieth century when convenience foods and hearty comfort cooking really took off. The cornflake topping became a favorite finish for home cooks looking to add crunch without extra fuss.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add steamed cauliflower or green beans for variety Try using smoked cheddar for a winter twist A sprinkle of fresh chives over the baked casserole gives it spring garden flavor
Success Stories
This recipe has become a white elephant potluck legend in my neighborhood. Even picky eaters usually come back for seconds. One friend texted me the night after the party for the recipe after her seven year old finally decided green stuff was delicious.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble the casserole up to the baking step then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as directed adding five to ten extra minutes until bubbling and hot.
Save Serve piping hot for best flavor and texture. This casserole is sure to win over even the most skeptical veggie eaters.
Kitchen Questions
- → Can frozen broccoli be used?
Yes, thaw frozen broccoli and drain well before mixing to avoid excess moisture breaking down the casserole texture.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free cornflakes and soup, or prepare a homemade cream sauce with cornstarch and broth.
- → What cheese works best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar is recommended for flavor and meltability, but try blending with Parmesan or Gruyère for added depth.
- → Can this casserole be made ahead?
Yes, assemble fully without the topping, refrigerate for up to a day, then add cornflakes and bake just before serving.
- → Can I add protein for a heartier dish?
Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or shredded chicken for extra substance if desired.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh bread to complement the cheese and broccoli flavors.