The holidays are a time for comfort, warmth, and familiar flavors that make everyone at the table feel at home. Few dishes capture that nostalgic, cozy feeling quite like a Broccoli and Cheese Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden and bubbly—a classic Christmas side dish that never goes out of style.
This dish is everything you want during the festive season: satisfying, simple to prepare, and easily scalable for any gathering. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or a full family feast, this casserole delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor: tender broccoli nestled in a rich cheese sauce, all topped with a crisp, buttery topping that crackles as you serve.
Why This Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Belongs on Your Holiday Table
There are countless reasons this dish is a must-have for Christmas or any winter celebration:
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Nostalgic flavor: Reminiscent of classic homemade casseroles from childhood holiday meals.
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Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love the creamy cheese and soft broccoli.
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Easy to make ahead: Prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving.
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Versatile: Works as a side for turkey, roast beef, chicken, or vegetarian mains.
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Beautiful presentation: Golden, bubbly, and inviting right out of the oven.
It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug—comforting, familiar, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients for Holiday Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
You don’t need fancy ingredients for this holiday favorite—just simple staples that combine to create something truly special.
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6 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, cut into bite-sized pieces)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
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¼ cup cream cheese
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)
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½ cup sour cream
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1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
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2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Choosing the Right Broccoli
Broccoli is the heart of this dish, so picking the right kind matters.
Fresh Broccoli:
If available, choose bright green heads with firm stems and tightly packed florets. Cut into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. Blanch the florets in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then cool quickly in ice water to preserve color and texture.
Frozen Broccoli:
Frozen broccoli is perfectly fine for this recipe and saves prep time. Just thaw completely and pat dry before adding it to the casserole so it doesn’t water down the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This casserole comes together in a few easy steps, and most of the work happens in one pot before baking.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or similar baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Blanch fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for about 2–3 minutes, then drain and transfer to an ice bath. Drain again and pat dry. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and dry.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir in the cream cheese and let it melt completely. Then add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until you have a velvety, cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Broccoli
Fold the broccoli into the cheese sauce, making sure every floret is coated evenly. Stir in the sour cream for extra richness and creaminess.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, mix crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for a Perfect Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
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Don’t overcook the broccoli. Slightly undercook it before baking so it retains some texture after baking.
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Use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
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Balance the sauce. Add extra milk if it becomes too thick before mixing in the broccoli.
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Bake uncovered. This helps achieve a crispy golden topping while keeping the inside creamy.
Variations and Add-Ins
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, you can make small tweaks to suit different occasions or tastes.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole
Mix in half cauliflower florets for added texture and a blend of flavors.
Extra Veggie Version
Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or diced carrots for a colorful, hearty side dish.
Three-Cheese Casserole
Combine cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella for a deeper, more complex cheese flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
Healthier Swap
Use low-fat milk, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and a reduced-fat cheese blend.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside your favorite main dishes, and it will always feel right at home.
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With roasted turkey or chicken: The creamy cheese contrasts beautifully with savory roasted meats.
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Next to beef tenderloin or prime rib: Adds a smooth, rich side to balance hearty proteins.
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As a vegetarian main: Serve with a green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
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At potlucks and holiday buffets: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that reheats beautifully.
You can also pair it with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or green beans for the ultimate holiday spread.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This casserole is ideal for busy holiday cooking because it can be made ahead and baked later.
To Make Ahead:
Assemble the casserole but don’t add the topping yet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature, add the topping, and bake as directed.
To Store Leftovers:
Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual servings. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if needed.
To Freeze:
You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as usual.
Holiday Presentation Tips
A little extra effort goes a long way in making this casserole look as festive as it tastes.
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Use a beautiful ceramic or glass dish. It keeps the heat well and looks elegant on the table.
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Top with fresh herbs. Sprinkle parsley or thyme over the baked dish for a touch of color.
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Serve with a garnish station. Offer extra shredded cheese or crushed crackers on the side for guests to personalize their portions.
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Add a hint of red. Garnish with a few halved cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a Christmas-themed color pop.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 11g
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Fat: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 14g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
This side dish delivers comfort in every bite without being overly heavy, making it perfect for festive meals where balance matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli without thawing it?
It’s best to thaw and drain it first. Frozen broccoli can release excess water, making the casserole runny.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Yes, though it adds extra richness. You can substitute with more sour cream or shredded cheese.
What’s the best cheese for broccoli casserole?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Colby Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for added depth.
Can I prepare it the night before?
Absolutely. Assemble it, refrigerate, and bake the next day—perfect for holiday prep.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure any crackers or toppings are free from animal-based ingredients.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Use a blend of milk and heavy cream, and don’t skip the cream cheese or sour cream. Both contribute to that luxurious texture.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for topping?
Crushed butter crackers, cornflakes, or even panko breadcrumbs make great alternatives.
Can I add rice or pasta to make it a full meal?
Yes! Mix in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta like macaroni before baking to turn it into a hearty main dish.
The Comfort of a Classic
There’s something timeless about a dish that’s been loved for generations. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole embodies the heart of holiday cooking—simple, satisfying, and filled with flavors that bring everyone together. It’s not just food; it’s the taste of comfort, laughter, and togetherness.
When it comes out of the oven, golden and bubbling, the aroma alone signals that something special is about to be shared. Each spoonful delivers creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and a buttery crunch on top—a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While it shines brightest during Christmas, this casserole deserves a place at the table all year long:
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Thanksgiving dinner: A staple that balances rich gravies and roasted meats.
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Easter brunch: A comforting complement to lighter spring dishes.
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Sunday family meals: A cozy side that makes any dinner feel special.
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Potlucks and gatherings: Easy to transport and always popular.
No matter when you serve it, it’s guaranteed to become part of your family’s treasured recipe collection.
Final Thoughts
This Holiday Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and timeless comfort. It’s the kind of recipe that fits seamlessly into any holiday feast, adding warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia.
Whether it’s part of a Christmas spread or a cozy winter meal at home, this dish reminds us that the best food doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to be made with care and shared with people we love.
Serve it once, and it’ll quickly become one of your most requested holiday recipes year after year.
