Broccoli Casserole with Velveeta, Cheddar, and Ritz Crackers Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Creamy Velveeta and sharp cheddar blend beautifully with tender broccoli, topped with a crispy buttery cracker crust.

Ingredients

• 32 ounces frozen broccoli florets
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into small cubes (no larger than 1 inch)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 sleeve Ritz Crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying the bottom and sides with non-stick spray, then set it aside.
2. Step 2: Boil the frozen broccoli florets in salted water for 3 minutes until just tender. Drain well and transfer the broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
3. Step 3: Season the broccoli with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes until the cheese melts completely and blends with the broccoli.
4. Step 4: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Step 5: Combine the crushed Ritz Crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheddar cheese layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard with the cheese for a tangy twist.
• Use fresh broccoli instead of frozen by steaming it until just tender, about 5-6 minutes.
• Substitute crushed breadcrumbs for a different texture on top if you prefer.
• Incorporate cooked, diced chicken for a heartier casserole.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works well. Steam it until tender but still firm, about 5-6 minutes, then follow the recipe as directed.

How do I make sure the cheese mixture is smooth and well blended?

Stir the Velveeta cheese into the hot broccoli immediately after draining, which helps it melt evenly. Mix thoroughly until no cheese chunks remain before transferring to the baking dish.

Broccoli Casserole with Velveeta, Cheddar, and Ritz Crackers Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 138 reviews

This Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Tender broccoli florets are mixed with Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese, then topped with a crunchy buttery Ritz cracker crust and baked until bubbly and golden.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli Mixture

• 32 ounces frozen broccoli florets
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed (no larger than 1 inch)

Topping

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 sleeve Ritz Crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Cook broccoli: Boil the frozen broccoli florets in salted water for 3 minutes until just tender. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix seasonings and cheese: Season the broccoli with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the Velveeta cubes to the warm broccoli and stir thoroughly until all the cheese has melted and the mixture is creamy and well combined.
4. Assemble casserole: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli layer.
5. Prepare topping and bake: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheddar cheese layer. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Notes

• Using frozen broccoli makes this recipe easy and convenient, but fresh broccoli can be used if preferred; steam it until just tender.
• Ensure the Velveeta cheese is fully melted to create a smooth, creamy texture.
• For a different flavor profile, you can add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat covered to maintain moisture.

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheesy broccoli casserole, Ritz crackers topping, Velveeta recipe, easy broccoli side dish, baked broccoli casserole