Historical Overview
The humble casserole has deep roots in American home cooking, gaining popularity in the mid-20th century when convenience foods like canned soups and frozen vegetables became kitchen staples. Broccoli casseroles, in particular, surged in the 1950s and 60s as home cooks sought easy, family-friendly ways to combine vegetables with comforting cheese sauces. Today, they’ve evolved into fresh, homemade versions—like this Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Delight—bringing together nutritious greens, creamy pasta, and irresistible golden topping for a dish that feels both nostalgic and modern.
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Delight – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Delight is creamy, golden, and downright irresistible. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish combines tender broccoli florets, cheesy pasta, and a buttery breadcrumb topping that bakes to perfection. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish but also makes a crowd-pleasing side. Whether you’re looking for a comforting winter bake or a potluck favorite, this casserole delivers on flavor, nostalgia, and easy homemade goodness.
Ingredients
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3 cups broccoli florets, blanched
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3 cups cooked elbow macaroni
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup milk
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 cup frozen corn (optional)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, then whisk in milk until smooth.
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Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted into a creamy sauce.
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In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, broccoli, corn, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
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Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
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In a small bowl, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly on top.
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
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Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
Add shredded chicken or ham for a protein boost.
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Common Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the breadcrumb topping, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the topping and cook as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if needed.
2. What can I serve with broccoli casserole?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, baked salmon, or even a simple garden salad. As a holiday side, it complements turkey, ham, or beef perfectly.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free flour for the roux. Swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version or crushed rice crackers for a crispy topping.
