Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole Recipe is creamy, cheesy and full of flavor. It is perfect for family dinners, holidays and potlucks.
Many people wonder “How to make Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole?” This recipe is easy and quick, even for beginners. With the right ingredients and simple steps, anyone can make it at home.
In this blog, you will learn everything about this delicious dish, including ingredients for Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole, step-by-step instructions, tips and variations to try.
My Experience With This Recipe
I tried Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole last weekend. I loved how creamy and cheesy it was. The broccoli stayed fresh and bright green.
My family enjoyed it and asked for seconds. It was easy to make and the kitchen smelled amazing. Even beginners can follow this recipe without mistakes.
I especially loved the crunchy topping, which made every bite perfect. This dish quickly became one of my favorite side dishes for dinners and gatherings.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Southern
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan (optional for steaming broccoli)
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole
- 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. - Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and chop broccoli into small pieces. Steam for 3–4 minutes until just tender but not soft. - Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic powder and pepper. Stir well. - Combine Broccoli and Sauce
Add steamed broccoli to the sauce. Stir until all broccoli is coated evenly with the creamy mixture. - Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour broccoli and sauce mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread evenly so it cooks uniformly. - Prepare the Topping
Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the broccoli mixture for a crispy topping. - Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil in the last 10 minutes to brown topping. - Check for Doneness
Casserole is ready when cheese is melted and topping is golden brown. Broccoli should still be bright green. - Serve Hot
Let it cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite main dish or as a side.
Tips to Make the Best Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole
- Use fresh broccoli for the best taste and texture
- Steam broccoli lightly to avoid mushy texture
- Mix sauce thoroughly to coat all broccoli pieces
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor
- Bake uncovered last 10 minutes for crispy topping
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking broccoli – it loses color and becomes soft
- Skipping butter in the topping – it won’t get crispy
- Using low-fat soup or cheese – casserole may be less creamy
- Not spreading topping evenly – some parts stay soft
Serving Suggestions
Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole pairs well with roasted chicken, baked fish or meatloaf. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or rice.
It is perfect for holidays, family dinners and potlucks. Add a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal. This creamy, cheesy casserole is loved by kids and adults alike.
Variations You Can Try
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor
- Substitute cream of mushroom with cream of chicken soup
- Mix in ½ cup chopped red bell pepper for color
- Use Parmesan cheese instead of cheddar for a different taste
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warm flavor
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes
- Cover with foil to prevent drying
- You can freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before baking
- Microwave leftovers for 2–3 minutes for a quick meal
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Health Benefits
Broccoli is full of vitamins, minerals and fiber. It has vitamin C, vitamin K and antioxidants. Cheese adds protein and calcium.
Making this casserole at home avoids processed ingredients. Enjoying it in moderation is a healthy and comforting choice.
Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli chopped
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the Broccoli
- Wash and chop broccoli into small pieces. Steam for 3–4 minutes until just tender but not soft.
Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic powder and pepper. Stir well.
Combine Broccoli and Sauce
- Add steamed broccoli to the sauce. Stir until all broccoli is coated evenly with the creamy mixture.
Transfer to Baking Dish
- Pour broccoli and sauce mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Prepare the Topping
- Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the broccoli mixture for a crispy topping.
Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil in the last 10 minutes to brown topping.
Check for Doneness
- Casserole is ready when cheese is melted and topping is golden brown. Broccoli should still be bright green.
Serve Hot
- Let it cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite main dish or as a side.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best taste and texture
- Steam broccoli lightly to avoid mushy texture
- Mix sauce thoroughly to coat all broccoli pieces
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor
- Bake uncovered last 10 minutes for crispy topping
FAQs about Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain excess water before mixing with the sauce for best results.
Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a fresh, warm dish.
Q3: Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, mozzarella, Monterey Jack or Parmesan can be used. Flavor will change slightly but still tasty.
Q4: How do I make it less creamy?
Use less mayonnaise or low-fat soup. The texture will be lighter but still delicious.
Q5: Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, carrots, cauliflower or bell peppers can be added for more color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole Recipe is creamy, cheesy and easy to make. With simple ingredients, anyone can prepare it at home.
The casserole is perfect for holidays, family dinners and potlucks. Following these steps, tips and variations will give you the best results.
Learning how to make Paula Deen’s Broccoli Casserole will quickly make it a family favorite. Serve it warm, enjoy the flavors and watch everyone smile at the table.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!