Broccoli Cheddar Cornflake Casserole

This Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole with a golden cornflake topping was the centerpiece of so many holiday gatherings in my house Even those who claimed they were not broccoli lovers always went back for seconds thanks to its rich cheesy filling and irresistible crunch It comes together quickly bake it up for an easy side or a filling vegetarian main that everyone will devour

I first whipped this up on a busy Thanksgiving morning when I needed something hearty and last-minute Loved ones raved and nearly every year since it is the first empty dish at the family table

Ingredients

• Fresh broccoli florets: for tender crisp texture and bright color Look for deep green heads without yellowing
• Yellow onion: for sweetness and depth Choose firm onions with papery tight skin
• Garlic: adds savory warmth Use fresh cloves for best flavor
• Sharp cheddar cheese: for bold creamy flavor Grate it yourself for perfect melt
• Sour cream: brings richness and tang Go for full fat for extra silkiness
• Whole milk: softens and smooths the cheese mixture Whole is best but two percent works in a pinch
• Unsalted butter: enriches both the cheese base and topping Opt for real block butter for full flavor
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup: adds classic creamy richness and depth Use low-sodium to manage salt
• Dijon mustard: lifts everything with a subtle zing Try grainy Dijon for a unique twist
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: season perfectly Fresh cracked pepper adds a nice bite
• Cornflakes: top the casserole with a crispy layer Buy plain simple cornflakes for maximum crunch
• Melted unsalted butter: for luscious crunch on top

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dish:

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius Get all ingredients measured and ready to streamline the process

Blanch the Broccoli:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Once bubbling add the broccoli florets and cook just until bright green and slightly tender about two to three minutes Immediately drain and run cold water over the broccoli to stop the cooking Keeps the casserole from going mushy

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a skillet over medium heat melt two tablespoons of butter Add chopped onion Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt and cook slowly stirring often until onion looks translucent and soft about three minutes Add minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant but not browned

Mix the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl combine the blanched broccoli sautéed onion and garlic sharp cheddar sour cream milk condensed soup Dijon salt and black pepper Stir until everything is perfectly blended with no dry patches

Assemble in Baking Dish:

Spoon the broccoli cheese mixture into your greased casserole dish Smooth the top gently so the filling is even from edge to edge

Make and Add the Topping:

Crush cornflakes with your hands or in a ziptop bag Mix them with two tablespoons melted butter until lightly coated Scatter the buttery flakes all over the casserole

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into your preheated oven Bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until bubbling around the edges and the topping is a deep golden hue

Rest Before Serving:

After baking let casserole stand at room temperature for five minutes This makes the cheesy filling easier to scoop and lets flavors settle

Save

The sharp cheddar truly makes this dish Every time I spoon some from the pan I remember my kids fighting for the pieces with the cheesiest edges The little crunchy pockets under the broiler are always claimed first in my family

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before covering and refrigerating Store in an airtight container for up to four days To reheat place in a moderate oven covered with foil until hot Remove the foil for the last few minutes to re-crisp the top

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh broccoli frozen works in a pinch no need to thaw before blanching Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or homemade béchamel sauce For a lactose free version use dairy substitute cheese and unsweetened plain yogurt instead of sour cream

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a main dish with a side salad or as a comforting side with roast chicken glazed tofu or baked potatoes Leftovers are delicious with a fried egg or even spooned inside a wrap for a savory lunch

A Little Casserole History

The classic American casserole became popular in mid twentieth century kitchens as a way to stretch fresh produce and create crowd friendly meals with minimal fuss The cornflake topping is a nod to postwar creativity in using pantry staples for both texture and visual appeal

Seasonal Adaptations

Use cauliflower or Romanesco instead of broccoli for a wintry twist In spring add chopped asparagus or snap peas for a green garden vibe Mix in roasted mushrooms in autumn for deep umami flavor

Success Stories

One year my best friend added a handful of chopped jalapeño to the topping and it was an instant family favorite A neighbor once mixed in cooked wild rice for a complete one dish meal I have seen this at a Friendsgiving vanish before the turkey is even carved

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble casserole without the cornflake topping cover tightly and freeze for up to two months When ready to bake thaw in the refrigerator overnight sprinkle on fresh cornflakes and butter then bake as directed

Save

This casserole brings together comfort and flavor It is simple to assemble and guaranteed to be a memorable dish at any gathering

Recipe FAQ

→ What makes the cornflake topping extra crispy?

Lightly crushed cornflakes are tossed with melted butter, then baked until golden for a crisp texture on top.

→ Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, use cream of celery or homemade béchamel sauce for a different flavor or to avoid canned ingredients.

→ How do I keep the broccoli tender?

Blanch broccoli florets briefly in boiling water until bright green and just tender, then drain well before mixing.

→ What cheese works best for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for richness and flavor, but you can add grated Parmesan for extra depth.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it is made without meat and features a creamy vegetable filling with vegetarian-friendly ingredients.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to the topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add cornflakes just before baking for best texture.