Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar
This Cracker Barrel-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Casserole brings the classic comfort of the beloved restaurant dish into your home. A delicious combination of tender broccoli, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, and a buttery cracker topping, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or as a comforting side dish. It's simple to make, with easy-to-follow steps that guarantee a cheesy, satisfying dish every time.
Equipment
- 1 Medium Saucepan (for making the cheese sauce)
- 1 9x13-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 9x13-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.