Penny's Broccoli Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly crunchy, Penny's Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that will elevate any dinner table. This crowd-pleasing recipe features tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich, velvety cheddar and cream cheese sauce, perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The buttery crushed cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch, creating a contrast that’s sure to delight every palate. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients like fresh broccoli, butter, and your favorite buttery crackers, this casserole is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you're planning a hearty weeknight side dish or searching for a standout holiday favorite, this baked broccoli casserole delivers on flavor and comfort in every bite. Make sure to serve it warm for that gooey cheese pull everyone will love!

Nutriscore Rating: 54/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers (e.g., Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6

Place the cooked broccoli florets into the prepared casserole dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli, ensuring all florets are coated.

Step 7

In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 8

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1413.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2831.4

Total Fat 210.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 119.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.1g
Cholesterol 562.2mg	0%
Sodium 5543.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 161.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.6g	0%
Total Sugars 42.4g
Protein 101.0g	0%

Vitamin D 237.3IU	0%
Calcium 2531.8mg	0%
Iron 6.8mg	0%
Potassium 2210.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 64.4%

Protein: 13.7%

Carbs: 21.9%