Go Back
A bubbling broccoli cheese casserole fresh from the oven, showing golden-brown topping and green florets.

Elevated Broccoli Cheese Casserole with a Savory Kick

This elevated broccoli cheese casserole features tender-crisp broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, savory cheese sauce, topped with buttery breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch. A perfect side dish or a comforting main.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 8 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven
  • Whisk
  • 9x13 Inch Baking Dish
  • Small Bowl

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4-5 cups Fresh Broccoli florets (or thawed and thoroughly drained frozen broccoli)
  • 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (4 for roux + 2 for topping)
  • 4 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
  • 2.5 cups Whole Milk
  • 2 cups Sharp or Medium Cheddar Cheese freshly grated
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese cubed
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper or to taste
  • 1-2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook broccoli florets in lightly salted boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
  • Drain the broccoli thoroughly and set aside for later.
  • In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
  • Gradually whisk in 2.5 cups of whole milk until the sauce thickens and simmers, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 4 ounces of cubed cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  • Add 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1-2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, stirring until all cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  • Gently fold the cooked broccoli into the cheese sauce, ensuring even coating, then pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl, then toss with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs until evenly coated, and sprinkle over the casserole.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  • Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving so the sauce can set.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce. Adjust the amount of Worcestershire sauce to your preference for a deeper savory kick. This casserole can be prepared ahead of time; simply assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.