Cheez-It Crusted Broccoli Casserole

Best Cheez-It Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Overview

Discover a beloved family recipe that has stood the test of time, passed down from Aunt Julia and cherished at every family gathering. This Cheez-It Broccoli Casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s perfect for potlucks, quick to prepare, and can even be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. With its creamy texture and crunchy topping, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your family’s meal rotation.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 179.4
• Rating: 5 stars (from 7 reviews)

Ingredients

• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups broccoli, cooked and drained
• 1 cup cracker crumbs (such as Cheez-It)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Start by cooking the broccoli in boiling water for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain it well and set aside.

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2. Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onions, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined to form a creamy sauce.

3. Combine Sauce with Broccoli: Add the cooked and drained broccoli to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated with the sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the broccoli mixture into an 8×8-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the top of the casserole evenly with the cracker crumbs. This will add a delicious crunchy texture to contrast with the creamy broccoli filling.

6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled casserole dish in the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

7. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish warm as a side or even as a main course.

Tips and Notes

• Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. You can add cooked chicken or ham for a heartier version, or swap out the cheddar cheese for another cheese of your choice.

• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

• Ingredient Substitutions: While the recipe specifies using mayonnaise, avoid substituting it with salad dressing as it may affect the texture of the casserole.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 179.4 per serving
• Fat: 8.4g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.9g
• Cholesterol: 61.3mg
• Sodium: 373.7mg
• Carbohydrates: 17.9g
  • Fiber: 2.5g
  • Sugar: 1.8g
• Protein: 9g

Conclusion

Whether you’re preparing this Cheez-It Broccoli Casserole for a family dinner, a potluck, or just looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to make and loved by all, Aunt Julia’s recipe is sure to be a hit. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the crunch of Cheez-It crumbs makes it irresistible. Enjoy creating lasting memories with this delightful dish that embodies the essence of family gatherings and delicious home-cooked meals.