Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, combining the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender broccoli and gooey cheese. I remember the first time I made it for my family; we gathered around the table, and the smell wafting from the oven had everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite. It was a hit! The creamy, cheesy goodness and the crunch of the breadcrumb topping just had everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll become a beloved staple in your home, too!
Ingredients for French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Prepare French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Alright, let’s get cooking! This French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole is super easy to whip up, and I promise it’ll make your kitchen smell divine. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want everything to bake evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of broccoli florets (you can use fresh or frozen, no judgment here!). Then, pour in the 10.5 oz can of French onion soup and add the 1 cup of sour cream. Mix it all together until the broccoli is well coated.
- Next, let’s get cheesy! Add in the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. I love this part because the cheese just melts together so beautifully. Stir until everything is combined.
- Now, transfer this delicious mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure you spread it out evenly so every bite is just as tasty!
- In a separate bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are nice and coated with the oil, which helps them get that lovely crunch when baked.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Don’t be shy; you want that crunch!
- Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Oh, the anticipation!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in no time. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready for your family!
- Hearty Flavors: The combination of French onion soup, broccoli, and gooey cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion that will warm your heart.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, this dish is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies for a healthier meal.
- Customizable: Want to add a little protein? Toss in some cooked chicken or even some crispy bacon for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Success with French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Alright, let’s make this delicious casserole even better with some pro tips! First off, if you’re looking to switch things up a bit, you can absolutely substitute the broccoli with other veggies like cauliflower or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you go for something that cooks faster.
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or garlic to the mix. It’ll give your casserole that extra depth that’s simply divine! And don’t hesitate to use different cheese combinations—Swiss or gouda would work beautifully, too.
When it comes to breadcrumbs, I love using panko because it gives that perfect crunchy texture on top. But if you’re out, regular breadcrumbs will do just fine. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese mixed in with the breadcrumbs can also add a nice salty kick.
Lastly, make sure to grease your baking dish well! Trust me, you don’t want your beautiful casserole sticking to the sides. And if you find the top is browning too quickly while baking, just cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information for French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of what’s in this delicious dish! Each serving of my French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole is packed with flavor and just the right amount of comfort. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But one thing’s for sure—this casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that you’ll feel good about serving to your family!
FAQ About French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the mixture, so your casserole doesn’t get too watery.
Can I add meat to the French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
Yes, you can! Adding cooked chicken or even some crispy bacon is a fantastic way to boost the protein and flavor. Just toss it in with the other ingredients before baking.
How do I store leftovers of this casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down completely before sealing it up!
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
You sure can! Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I serve with the French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but adding a side salad makes for a complete meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some leftovers of this delicious French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole? Lucky you! Storing it properly is key to enjoying those flavors later. First things first, let the casserole cool down a bit after baking. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure it’s sealed tight so it doesn’t absorb any unwanted fridge odors!
When it’s time to reheat, you can pop it in the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly again. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. But, oh my, the oven method really brings back that glorious crisp on top!
Trust me, taking a few extra minutes to reheat it in the oven is totally worth it for that comforting, cheesy goodness all over again!
Serving Suggestions for French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole
When it comes to serving my French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole, the options are endless! This dish is so hearty and comforting that it can stand alone, but I’ve got some fantastic pairing ideas to elevate your meal even further.
First up, a fresh, crisp green salad is always a winner. I love tossing together some mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The crunch and acidity from the salad perfectly balance the richness of the casserole.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, consider serving it alongside some crusty garlic bread. Trust me, the combination of cheesy goodness and buttery bread is just divine! You can even use the bread to scoop up that delicious casserole—you won’t regret it!
Another great option is pairing it with a simple vegetable side, like roasted carrots or sautéed green beans. The freshness of the veggies complements the casserole and adds some lovely color to your plate.
And if you really want to make it a feast, a side of baked chicken or grilled steak would add a delicious protein option, making it a complete meal that everyone will love. Just remember, whatever you choose to serve alongside, the star of the show is always that creamy, cheesy casserole! Enjoy every bite!
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French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole: 5 Comforting Layers
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty casserole combining French onion soup flavors with broccoli and cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix broccoli, French onion soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and olive oil. Mix well.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole