Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Looking for a deliciously comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole is a tried-and-true favorite that combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy cracker topping.

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This classic Southern casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, holiday dinner, or just a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to please.

What makes Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole so irresistible is its perfect balance of textures and flavors.

The creamy base, made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and condensed cream of mushroom soup, envelops tender broccoli florets, while a golden, buttery cracker crust adds just the right amount of crunch.

With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that feels special and indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients in Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole

Frozen Chopped Broccoli – The star of the dish, bringing a wholesome, earthy flavor and texture to the casserole. Using frozen broccoli saves time and ensures you always have a key ingredient on hand.

Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy, tangy base that enriches the casserole’s overall flavor, balancing the sharpness of the cheese.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with broccoli, adding depth and a satisfying cheesy finish to the dish.

Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – Enhances the casserole with a smooth, savory flavor that complements the broccoli and cheese, while also adding a luscious, creamy texture.

Eggs – Lightly beaten to help bind the ingredients together, ensuring a firm yet tender consistency when baked.

Crushed Crackers – The topping that adds a delightful crunch, contrasting the creamy filling underneath. It also absorbs some of the butter, creating a golden-brown, buttery crust.

Butter – Melted and poured over the crushed crackers, adding a rich flavor and helping to brown the topping.

How to Make This Easy Broccoli Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 13 x 9-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained chopped broccoli with mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and lightly beaten eggs. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Transfer the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole. Drizzle the melted butter over the crackers, ensuring they are well coated to create a crispy, golden topping.

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until the top is set and browned to perfection.

Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Casserole

Cooking the Broccoli: Make sure the broccoli is well-drained after cooking to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Cracker Topping: For an even crispier topping, use buttery crackers like Ritz, or experiment with different types of bread crumbs or crushed nuts.

Cheese Variations: Swap the cheddar for other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just add the cracker topping right before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers of Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the crispy topping.

If you plan to freeze it, consider freezing the casserole without the cracker topping to prevent it from becoming soggy. Add the topping just before reheating for the best texture.