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If you’ve ever visited Cracker Barrel, chances are you’ve fallen in love with their famous Broccoli Cheddar Casserole.
This comforting, cheesy dish has become a staple for many families, offering a delightful blend of tender broccoli and a rich, creamy cheddar sauce.
Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or just craving something cozy, this casserole is a perfect side dish that adds flavor and warmth to any occasion.
This recipe brings the magic of Cracker Barrel’s Broccoli Cheddar Casserole right to your own kitchen, giving you all the savory goodness of the original with the ease of homemade cooking.
Packed with fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of cheese and vegetables, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To recreate Cracker Barrel’s Broccoli Cheddar Casserole at home, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients.
Each one plays a vital role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and cheesy goodness.
Here’s everything you’ll need to gather before you get started:
Fresh Broccoli
Broccoli is the star of this casserole, providing both texture and nutrition.
Fresh florets are best for achieving that perfect bite, and when cooked just right, they hold their shape while blending beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
The cheese makes the dish rich and indulgent.
A combination of sharp cheddar and mild cheddar offers the ideal balance of bold flavor and smooth meltability.
Choose high-quality shredded cheese to ensure it melts evenly and gives the casserole a creamy consistency.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
This canned soup adds a rich, creamy base to the casserole, helping bind everything together.
The mushroom flavor complements the broccoli and cheese, but you can use a cream of chicken soup or even a homemade version if preferred.
Sour Cream
Sour cream adds a nice tang and creaminess to the casserole, giving it a slightly zesty taste that enhances the cheesy flavors.
It also helps make the texture extra smooth and rich.
Butter
A couple of tablespoons of butter will help sauté the broccoli and provide a rich flavor to the overall dish.
It also adds to the smoothness of the cheese sauce when combined.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder offers a mild, savory background note without overpowering the other flavors in the casserole.
It’s an essential ingredient to elevate the overall taste.
Crushed Ritz Crackers
For the finishing touch, crushed Ritz crackers are sprinkled on top of the casserole before baking.
They create a delicious, buttery crust that adds a perfect crunch to the creamy, cheesy casserole.
Salt and Pepper
These basic seasonings help balance the flavors and bring out the best in every ingredient.
You can adjust the salt and pepper to taste, depending on your preferences.
With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be ready to create a delicious casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Let’s move on to the next step of preparing this mouthwatering dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Broccoli
The first step in making this Cracker Barrel-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is preparing the broccoli.
Start by washing the fresh broccoli thoroughly to remove any dirt.
Cut the broccoli into small florets—bite-sized pieces work best for a uniform texture in the casserole.
Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes.
This will help soften it slightly while maintaining its vibrant green color.
After blanching, drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
Once the broccoli has cooled, drain it again and set it aside to dry. This step ensures that your casserole won’t become watery.
Making the Cheddar Sauce
While your broccoli is cooling, you can prepare the creamy cheddar cheese sauce.
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted, add a can of cream of mushroom soup (or your preferred alternative, like cream of chicken soup) into the pan.
Stir well to combine.
Next, slowly add the sour cream into the mixture, stirring until smooth.
Once everything is well combined, gradually add in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly.
Allow the cheese to melt completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
You can adjust the seasoning based on your preferences, but remember to keep the flavor balanced to complement the broccoli.
Assembling the Casserole
Now that your broccoli and cheese sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole.
Start by spreading the prepared broccoli evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Pour the creamy cheddar cheese sauce over the broccoli, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Gently stir the mixture to ensure the sauce coats the broccoli completely.
If you’d like, you can add a bit more shredded cheese to the top for an extra cheesy layer.
This step is optional but will give the casserole a beautiful golden top once baked.
Topping It Off
To finish off the casserole, sprinkle a generous layer of crushed Ritz crackers over the top.
The buttery, flaky crackers create a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broccoli and cheese.
For added richness, you can drizzle a little melted butter over the cracker crumbs before baking.
Baking the Casserole
Once your casserole is assembled and topped with the cracker crumbs, it’s time to bake it to perfection.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
For the best results, keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking.
The cracker topping should be crispy and slightly toasted, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.
If you like a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but be sure to watch closely so the crackers don’t burn.
Once the casserole is baked to your desired level of golden perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to scoop out.
Enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Casserole as a side dish or as the main attraction at your next meal!
Serving Suggestions
Cracker Barrel’s Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, making it an excellent choice for any meal.
Here are a few serving ideas to complete your meal:
Pair with Roasted Meats
This casserole complements roasted meats like roast chicken, turkey, or beef beautifully.
The rich, cheesy texture of the casserole contrasts nicely with the savory, crispy skin of roasted meats, creating a satisfying and balanced meal.
Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this combination never fails to impress.
Serve with a Fresh Salad
To balance the richness of the casserole, pair it with a crisp, fresh salad.
A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
You can also try a tangy coleslaw or a spinach and walnut salad for a slightly different twist.
Add Grilled or Sautéed Vegetables
If you’re looking to keep the meal vegetable-focused, consider serving the casserole alongside grilled or sautéed vegetables.
Roasted carrots, green beans, or a medley of bell peppers and zucchini will bring more color and variety to the plate while staying in line with the wholesome, vegetable-forward theme.
Perfect for Holiday Meals
The Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is also a perfect addition to your holiday table.
Its comforting flavors make it an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners.
It pairs particularly well with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or ham, making it a go-to for large family gatherings.
Storage and Leftovers
One of the best things about this casserole is that it stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers later in the week.
Storing Leftovers
Once the casserole has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent moisture from getting in, which could make the casserole soggy.
Freezing for Later
If you want to make this casserole ahead of time or save some for later, it can also be frozen.
After assembling the casserole but before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Label it with the date and freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking it as directed.
Alternatively, you can bake it straight from frozen—just be sure to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
Reheating
To reheat leftover casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
If you prefer, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Just be sure to cover the casserole with a damp paper towel to avoid drying it out while microwaving.
Leftovers can also be stored in individual servings, making it easier to enjoy a quick, comforting meal without much effort.
By properly storing and reheating your broccoli cheddar casserole, you can extend the enjoyment of this tasty dish throughout the week!
Tips and Variations
Make It Ahead
One of the best things about this Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is how well it can be made in advance.
If you’re planning for a busy week or hosting a meal, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it.
Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it overnight.
When you’re ready to bake, just pop it into the oven and bake it as usual.
This is an excellent time-saver when you’re trying to get everything ready for a gathering.
Make It Gluten-Free
If you’re looking to make this casserole gluten-free, it’s easy to adjust! Simply swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs.
You can also double-check the cream of mushroom soup label to ensure it’s gluten-free, or opt for a homemade version using gluten-free flour.
Add a Protein
While this casserole is a fantastic side dish on its own, you can easily turn it into a main course by adding protein.
Cooked chicken breast, ham, or even crumbled bacon would make a great addition.
Simply mix the protein into the broccoli and cheese sauce before baking for a heartier meal.
Spice It Up
For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding some spice to your casserole.
A pinch of red pepper flakes, a bit of Dijon mustard, or even a chopped jalapeño can add a pleasant kick to the creamy dish.
You can also experiment with adding a bit of hot sauce or chili powder to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Experiment with Cheese
While sharp cheddar cheese is the star of the casserole, you can switch it up and experiment with different cheeses.
Try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder taste, or add in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
For a more gourmet touch, Parmesan or Gruyère could add a nice depth of flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel’s Broccoli Cheddar Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender broccoli.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a special meal or enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to satisfy.
With easy-to-follow instructions and versatile options for customization, this casserole is not only delicious but also convenient to make ahead and store for later use.
By adding a personal twist with your favorite ingredients or toppings, you can make this dish your own.
Whether you prefer it with a crispy cracker crust or a kick of spice, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this savory casserole.
So gather your ingredients, get ready to bake, and enjoy a dish that will surely become a favorite in your household!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh.
Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well before using it in the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Frozen broccoli can sometimes be a bit softer, so keep that in mind when blanching. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready, bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed. - What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk.
You can also use a creamy vegetable soup for a different flavor profile. - How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery? To prevent the casserole from being watery, make sure you drain the broccoli well after blanching, as excess moisture can make the casserole soggy.
Also, avoid overcooking the broccoli, as it can release too much water when mixed into the casserole. - Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, this casserole is already vegetarian, but to keep it fully plant-based, you can use vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream and cream of mushroom soup.
Just make sure all your ingredients are plant-based if you’re following a vegan diet.
Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar
Equipment
- 1 Medium Saucepan (for making the cheese sauce)
- 1 9×13-inch baking dish
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 – Mixing spoon
- 1 Large Bowl (for mixing broccoli and cheese sauce)
- 1 Small Bowl (for crushing crackers)
- 1 Oven (for baking)
Ingredients
- 4 cups Broccoli Florets fresh or frozen
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese sharp or mild
- 1 can 10.5 oz Cream of Mushroom Soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 2 tbsp Butter for sautéing and mixing
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 cup Crushed Ritz Crackers or other crackers
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli:
- Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into small florets.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
- Drain and immediately transfer the broccoli to ice water to halt the cooking process. Drain again and set aside to dry.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream to the pan, stirring until smooth.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts completely.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until the sauce is well combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the prepared broccoli evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and stir gently to mix.
- Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the top of the casserole for a crunchy, golden topping.
Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the cracker topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve this creamy, cheesy casserole as a side dish for your favorite main courses and enjoy!
Notes
- Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, just bake it as directed.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Customizations: Add cooked chicken, bacon, or other vegetables to make it a heartier dish. You can also substitute the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a unique flavor.
