Velveeta Broccoli and Cheese Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something magical about a dish that turns humble broccoli into a creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped masterpiece. This Velveeta Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a crowd-pleaser—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or the star of your holiday table. With its velvety cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s the kind of side dish that disappears fast.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole is a Southern classic for good reason: it’s easy, customizable, and downright delicious. Here’s why it’s a must-make:
- Creamy, dreamy cheese sauce: Velveeta melts into a smooth, luscious sauce that clings to every floret—no grainy or separated cheese here .
- Crunchy, buttery topping: Ritz crackers (or substitutes like Townhouse or Cornflakes) add a golden, crispy contrast to the creamy filling .
- Kid-friendly veggies: Even picky eaters will devour broccoli when it’s smothered in cheese .
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble it ahead and bake when needed—perfect for busy cooks .
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple or tweak it—this recipe is flexible!
- Broccoli: 32 oz frozen florets (thawed) or fresh (steamed until tender-crisp) .
- Cheese: 16 oz Velveeta (cubed for easy melting) + 1 cup shredded cheddar for extra richness .
- Topping: 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed + 2 tbsp melted butter (double the crackers if you love crunch!) .
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper—adjust to taste .
Pro Tip: Room-temperature Velveeta melts faster and blends smoother. Cold cheese can leave unappetizing pockets in your casserole .
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Broccoli
- Frozen: Thaw and drain well to avoid sogginess. Boil for 3 minutes if using frozen .
- Fresh: Steam florets for 12 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp (they’ll soften more in the oven) .
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large pot, melt Velveeta cubes with ½ cup milk or cream (for extra silkiness). Stir in seasonings until smooth .
Pro Tip: Add a dash of cayenne or dry mustard for a subtle kick .
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Toss broccoli with the cheese sauce. Spread in a greased 9×13 dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar, then buttery cracker crumbs .
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end .
Customizations & Pro Tips
- Add protein: Stir in diced chicken, bacon, or ground beef for a hearty main dish .
- Veggie swaps: Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes work great .
- Cracker alternatives: Cornflakes, panko, or fried onions add different textures .
- Dairy-free? Use vegan cheese and butter—though the texture will differ .
Storage Tip: Leftovers reheat beautifully in an air fryer (5–7 minutes at 350°F) to revive the crispy topping .
Why This Dish is a Keeper
This casserole is more than a recipe—it’s nostalgia on a plate. Families have passed it down for generations because it’s foolproof, comforting, and adaptable. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday ham or sneaking veggies into your kids’ diets, it’s a winner every time .
Final Thought: Don’t skip the Ritz crackers. That buttery crunch is what takes this from “good” to “can’t-stop-eating-it” .
