Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers Recipe
Broccoli cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is the ultimate comfort side dish, combining tender broccoli, a creamy cheese sauce, and a buttery golden cracker topping. It is the kind of dish that disappears fast at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday tables alike.
What makes this casserole so irresistible is the contrast of textures. You get soft, cheesy broccoli underneath and a crisp, buttery Ritz cracker crust on top. It comes together with simple ingredients and very little effort, making it an easy go to whenever you need a crowd pleasing side. Once you try it, this will become a regular on your dinner rotation.
What Is Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers
This casserole is a baked dish of broccoli florets folded into a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with crushed Ritz crackers. As it bakes, the cheese melts into every bite and the cracker topping turns crisp and golden brown.
Ritz crackers are the star of the topping because they are buttery, slightly salty, and bake up perfectly crunchy. Together with sharp cheddar cheese, they turn simple broccoli into a warm, satisfying casserole that tastes indulgent yet is easy to make.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There is a lot to love about this classic casserole:
- Buttery cracker topping: the crushed Ritz crackers add the perfect golden crunch.
- Cheesy and creamy: a rich cheddar sauce coats every floret of broccoli.
- Easy to make: simple ingredients and minimal prep make it a stress free side.
- Crowd pleaser: perfect for holidays, potlucks, and weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 6 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus 4 tablespoons melted for the topping
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1.5 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1.5 cups)
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
- Steam or boil the broccoli florets until just tender, about 4 to 5 minutes, then drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Fold the drained broccoli into the cheese sauce, then spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the 4 tablespoons melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
A few tips for the best casserole:
- Do not overcook the broccoli before baking, since it will continue to soften in the oven.
- Drain the broccoli very well so the casserole does not turn watery.
- Shred your own cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
Tasty ways to change it up:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to turn it into a main dish.
- Stir in cooked rice for a heartier broccoli rice casserole.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in pepper jack cheese for a little heat.
Storage Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For the crispiest topping, reheat in the oven. You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 2 months, then bake from frozen adding extra time.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes. Just thaw and drain it well before mixing so the casserole does not become watery.
Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the cracker topping right before baking so it stays crisp.
What cheese works best? Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but Colby, Monterey Jack, or a blend all work nicely.
Why did my topping get soggy? Be sure to toss the crackers with melted butter and add them just before baking to keep them crunchy.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli cheese casserole with Ritz crackers is a comforting, cheesy side dish that never fails to please. With its creamy broccoli base and buttery golden topping, it is easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for the holidays. Make it once and it is sure to earn a permanent spot at your table.