Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole Recipe – A Cheesy, Comforting Favorite!

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole is a beloved Southern-style dish that combines tender broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce, creating the ultimate comfort food.

This casserole is a staple on the Cracker Barrel menu and has become a favorite for its creamy texture and satisfying flavor.

It’s typically served as a side dish, making it a perfect companion to roasted meats or as a crowd-pleasing addition to holiday spreads.

What sets this dish apart is its simple yet indulgent combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of savory seasonings.

The comforting blend of flavors and textures has made it a must-try for anyone looking to recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel at home.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Making Cracker Barrel’s broccoli casserole at home is incredibly rewarding. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your liking.

The dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the gooey cheese and perfectly cooked broccoli.

It’s also versatile enough to serve on a weeknight, at a family gathering, or at your next potluck.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Whether you’re craving comfort food or searching for a unique side dish, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole

To recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole at home, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering dish.

Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Fresh Broccoli: You’ll need about 4 cups of fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets. Fresh broccoli ensures a great texture and flavor in the casserole.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is the key ingredient that adds richness and flavor to the casserole. A blend of shredded sharp cheddar cheese works best.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This acts as the base for the creamy sauce. It binds the ingredients together and adds a mild, earthy flavor.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients and giving the casserole its structure.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps create a rich texture.
• Onion: A small onion, finely chopped, enhances the savory depth of the dish.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps to sauté the onions, contributing to the overall flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a subtle, savory kick to the casserole.
• Salt and Pepper: These seasonings bring everything together and elevate the flavors.
• Ritz Crackers (optional): Crushed Ritz crackers are often used as a topping for a crispy, buttery finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

While these are the traditional ingredients, you can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping altogether.
• Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use mozzarella or a cheese blend instead of sharp cheddar.
• Vegan Version: For a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan cheese, and substitute the mayo and cream of mushroom soup with plant-based versions.
• Adding Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chicken, bacon, or ham.

With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, homemade version of Cracker Barrel’s signature broccoli casserole.

Equipment Needed

To make the perfect Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools and pieces of equipment.

These items will ensure the dish is both easy to prepare and cooks evenly:

Baking Dish

A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this casserole.

It allows for even baking and gives the ingredients enough space to meld together perfectly.

Make sure to grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Mixing Bowls

You’ll need two mixing bowls: one for preparing the broccoli mixture and another for any topping ingredients, such as the crushed Ritz crackers.

Using separate bowls helps keep everything organized and ensures that the components of the casserole mix thoroughly.

Spatula or Spoon

A spatula or large spoon will come in handy when mixing the casserole ingredients.

It will help you combine the broccoli, cheese, and seasonings evenly.

Steamer or Large Pot

If you choose to steam your broccoli, a steamer basket or a large pot with a steaming rack is essential.

Alternatively, you can blanch the broccoli in a pot of boiling water for a couple of minutes to soften it slightly before mixing it into the casserole.

Grater (for Cheese)

If you’re using a block of cheddar cheese, having a box grater will be very useful.

Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives the casserole a smoother, creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Knife and Cutting Board

A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for chopping the broccoli and any other vegetables or ingredients, such as the onion or garlic.

Make sure to cut everything into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Aluminum Foil or Lid for Baking

A sheet of aluminum foil or a lid for the baking dish will help the casserole bake evenly.

You’ll initially cover the casserole to prevent it from drying out while baking, then remove the cover in the final stage for a golden-brown finish.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing and chopping the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets.

If you’re steaming the broccoli, use a steamer basket over boiling water and steam the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes until it’s just tender but still firm.

You can also blanch the broccoli by briefly boiling it for 2-3 minutes and then immediately plunging it into ice water to stop the cooking process.

This method helps maintain the vibrant green color and texture. Once the broccoli is ready, drain it well and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Once the onion is softened, add the garlic powder (or fresh garlic, if using) and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cooked onions, and garlic.

Add the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and eggs.

Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated and evenly distributed.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the mixture is seasoned properly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the broccoli mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread the mixture evenly, pressing it down slightly to compact it.

If you want to add a crispy topping, crush the Ritz crackers and sprinkle them evenly over the top.

You can also drizzle a little melted butter over the crackers for extra richness.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.

This will allow the casserole to heat through and become nice and bubbly.

After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

The casserole should be hot, creamy, and perfectly baked.

It’s now ready to be enjoyed as a side dish at dinner or as part of a festive holiday spread.

Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole

Achieving the Perfect Texture

For the ideal texture, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking the broccoli. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.

If you’re steaming or blanching the broccoli, aim for it to remain slightly firm, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

You want the broccoli to hold its shape and still have a slight bite when you eat it.

Additionally, when mixing the casserole ingredients, ensure the broccoli is well-coated with the creamy mixture but not too mushy.

Gently stir the mixture to keep the broccoli florets intact for that perfect bite in every spoonful.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the great things about this casserole is how customizable it is!

Here are a few ways you can personalize the dish to suit your taste:

• Add Protein: If you’d like to make the casserole more of a main dish, you can add some cooked chicken, bacon, or even ground sausage for extra flavor and heartiness.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to mix in other vegetables, such as cauliflower, carrots, or even spinach, to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile of the casserole.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a unique twist on the classic sharp cheddar cheese. You could also blend in a bit of parmesan for an extra touch of richness.
• Topping Alternatives: While Ritz crackers are the traditional topping, you can swap them out for panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also microwave individual servings, though the texture may be slightly different.

For long-term storage, this casserole freezes beautifully.

Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly.

Nutritional Information

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole is a rich and indulgent dish, packed with creamy ingredients and cheesy goodness.

Below is a general breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on a 9×13-inch baking dish serving 8 people):

Calories

• Per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (without the optional Ritz cracker topping). The calorie count may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Macronutrients

• Fat: 18-22 grams per serving
  • This dish is relatively high in fat, primarily from the cheese, butter, and mayonnaise. Using reduced-fat cheese or a lighter mayo can cut down on the fat content.
• Carbohydrates: 13-15 grams per serving
  • The carbohydrates in the casserole mostly come from the broccoli, mayonnaise, and the optional crackers. If you’re looking to lower the carb count, you can omit the crackers or replace them with a low-carb alternative like almond flour or a keto-friendly breadcrumb substitute.
• Protein: 9-12 grams per serving
  • The protein primarily comes from the eggs and cheese in the casserole. Adding meat like chicken or bacon would boost the protein content.

Fiber

• Per Serving: 3-4 grams
  • The broccoli provides a good amount of fiber, making this casserole a decent source of plant-based nutrients.

Sodium

• Per Serving: Approximately 500-700 mg
  • The sodium content can be quite high, primarily due to the cream of mushroom soup and cheese. To reduce the sodium, use low-sodium soup or fresh ingredients instead of processed items.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Vitamin A: 15-20% of the daily value
  • Thanks to the broccoli and cheese, this casserole offers a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function.
• Calcium: 20-25% of the daily value
  • The cheese is a great source of calcium, supporting bone health.

This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portions used.

For a lighter version of the casserole, consider swapping ingredients like low-fat cheese or light mayo and omitting the cracker topping.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of a classic Southern favorite right into your home.

With its rich, creamy texture and vibrant green broccoli, it’s a dish that can easily become the star of your dinner table.

Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or even a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Making it from scratch not only gives you control over the ingredients but also allows you to customize it to suit your preferences—whether you add extra veggies, a protein boost, or a different topping.

With just a few simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can enjoy a Cracker Barrel-inspired meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.

Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new family favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the casserole a day ahead. Simply prepare the casserole as instructed, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate.

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), remove the cover, and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh in this recipe.

Be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

You can either steam or microwave the frozen broccoli before mixing it into the casserole.

3. How do I make the casserole healthier?

To make this casserole a bit lighter, consider using reduced-fat or fat-free versions of the mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, and cheese.

You can also skip the Ritz cracker topping or use a healthier alternative like whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.

4. Can I freeze Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking.

If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time.

If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

5. What can I serve with Cracker Barrel Broccoli Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham.

It also works well alongside other Southern favorites like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

For a lighter meal, serve it with a fresh tomato salad or a side of quinoa.