If you have been searching for an irresistibly creamy and flavorful side dish, the Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe is exactly the heartwarming crowd-pleaser you need. This casserole combines tender broccoli with the smooth, melty goodness of Velveeta cheese, balanced by sharp cheddar and a buttery Ritz cracker topping for a perfect crispy finish. It’s simple enough for a weekday side but decadent enough to serve at holiday dinners. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your go-to comfort food classics that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this cozy Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe, you’ll gather a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in flavor and texture—from fresh broccoli florets to that signature Velveeta cheese magic. Every component brings something special, whether it’s creaminess, seasoning, or crunch.
- Frozen broccoli florets (32 ounces): The star vegetable providing a tender, nutritious base that holds up beautifully in the casserole.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing and bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Delivers a warm, savory undertone without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Brings depth and a mellow aroma to the seasoning mix.
- Velveeta cheese (16 ounces): The ultimate creamy, melty ingredient that envelops the broccoli with luscious texture.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup): Adds a rich cheese punch and a slightly tangy layer on top of the Velveeta blend.
- Ritz crackers, crushed (1 sleeve): Creates the golden, buttery crust that gives this casserole its irresistible crunch.
- Salted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Coats the cracker topping for that perfect buttery finish.
How to Make Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the casserole will bake evenly and the cheese will melt into that perfect gooey texture we all love. Getting the oven ready is the first easy step toward a delicious homemade casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with non-stick spray. This simple step makes serving effortless and keeps that cheesy broccoli from sticking to the bottom, so every last bite comes out with ease.
Step 3: Boil the Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your frozen broccoli florets. Let them cook for about 3 minutes until they’re just tender but still hold their shape beautifully. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water, which could make the casserole soggy, and transfer your broccoli to a spacious mixing bowl.
Step 4: Season the Broccoli
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that the broccoli is evenly coated in this classic seasoning blend—this simple flavor base is what makes the cheesy broccoli filling taste so well-rounded and comforting.
Step 5: Add and Melt Velveeta Cheese
Cut the Velveeta cheese into 1-inch cubes and add them directly to the warm broccoli. Stir continuously to help the cheese melt smoothly and combine into a creamy sauce that clings to every bit of broccoli, creating the signature velvety texture of this casserole.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Once your cheesy mixture is well combined, transfer it into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer that will bake beautifully and ensure each serving delivers the right balance of broccoli and cheese.
Step 7: Add Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly across the top. This adds an extra dimension of cheesy richness and helps develop a beautiful bubbly layer as it bakes, intensifying the overall flavor.
Step 8: Prepare the Topping
Now, mix your crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl. This combination creates the golden, crunchy top crust classic to this Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the cheddar cheese layer for maximum crispy goodness.
Step 9: Bake
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling happily and the Ritz topping has turned a gorgeous golden brown. This baking time perfectly melds all the flavors while giving the dish an inviting, toasty finish.
How to Serve Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the appearance and add a fresh contrast, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. The bright green adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh taste that balances the richness of the casserole wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe shines alongside roasted meats like chicken or pork, or as part of a cozy holiday spread. It’s also fantastic paired with a crisp salad or simple steamed carrots to round out your meal with texture and a variety of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with extra crackers or a few toasted almonds for crunch. You can also turn it into a potluck star by placing the casserole in a festive baking dish and letting everyone help themselves to the cheesy, comforting goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The casserole stays great for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy second helpings or transform it into a quick lunch.
Freezing
If you want to make the casserole ahead for a later date, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra bake time until bubbly and warmed through.
Reheating
Reheat your stored or thawed Velveeta Broccoli Casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until hot and the cheese is melted again, usually 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunchy topping intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works wonderfully; just steam or boil it until tender before mixing with the cheese to ensure the best texture for the casserole.
Is Velveeta cheese necessary for this recipe?
Velveeta gives this casserole its signature creamy, smooth melt that other cheeses can’t quite replicate. You can try substitutes, but expect a different texture and flavor.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this casserole is naturally vegetarian as it stands, with no meat ingredients required—perfect as a hearty vegetarian side dish.
What can I do to make the topping extra crunchy?
For an even crunchier topping, add a handful of toasted nuts, such as slivered almonds or pecans, mixed with the buttered crackers before baking.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe comfortably serves about 10 people, making it ideal for family dinners or parties.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe enough if you love creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s easy to make and crowd-pleasing. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests with minimal effort. Give it a try soon—you might find it becomes one of your all-time favorite dishes to prepare and share!
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Velveeta Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and cheesy Velveeta Broccoli Casserole is a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Featuring tender broccoli florets blended with melted Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crumb crust, this casserole bakes to a golden bubbly delight in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 32 ounces frozen broccoli florets
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Cheeses
- 16 ounces Velveeta Cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure even cooking and perfectly melted cheese in your casserole.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray, making it easy to remove and serve the casserole later.
- Boil the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the frozen broccoli florets, and boil for 3 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water, then transfer the broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
- Season the Broccoli: Sprinkle the broccoli with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Add and Melt Velveeta Cheese: Add the cubes of Velveeta cheese to the warm seasoned broccoli and stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cheesy broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the broccoli mixture to add an extra cheesy layer.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the broccoli well after boiling to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- For a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead; assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
