Broccoli Bake Cream Mushroom Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, there’s something about casseroles and baked dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Broccoli Bake with Cream Mushroom Soup is one of those dishes that effortlessly combines richness, flavor, and nourishment all in one. It’s a great side dish that pairs wonderfully with just about any main course or can stand proudly on its own as a vegetarian delight. What makes this recipe even more amazing is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare and packs a satisfying punch of flavor with minimal effort.

This dish features tender broccoli enveloped in a creamy, savory mushroom sauce, topped with a golden, cheesy crust that makes each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or a dish to bring to your next potluck, this Broccoli Bake with Cream Mushroom Soup checks all the boxes. Ready to dive in? Let’s break down the ingredients and steps that will have you whipping up this savory sensation in no time.

Broccoli Bake Cream Mushroom Soup Recipe

This recipe uses simple, yet delicious, ingredients that most home cooks are familiar with. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and taste, especially when you’re craving something creamy and indulgent without needing to spend hours in the kitchen.

So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed

To make this broccoli bake a success, you’ll need the following ingredients. Trust me, you’ll likely already have most of them in your pantry or fridge:

• Broccoli (fresh or frozen) – 2-3 cups, chopped into bite-sized florets
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – 1 can (usually around 10.5 oz)
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups, or more if you’re a fan of extra cheese!
• Sour Cream – ½ cup (adds tanginess and a bit of extra creaminess)
• Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted (to help bind everything together)
• Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon (this adds a nice depth of flavor without being overwhelming)
• Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon (for a little extra savory kick)
• Salt and Pepper – to taste (season to your liking)
• Crushed Ritz Crackers (or breadcrumbs) – ½ cup (for that crunchy topping)
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup (to mix with the crackers for that golden crust)

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get down to the business of baking this amazing broccoli dish. Don’t worry, it’s super simple, and you won’t need a professional chef’s skills to pull it off!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want that oven nice and warm so your casserole can bake evenly and develop a golden crust.
2. Prepare the broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, wash it thoroughly and chop it into small florets. If using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
3. Blanch the broccoli (optional): If you prefer your broccoli to be a little softer, blanch it in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside. This step ensures your broccoli is tender but not mushy.
4. Mix the casserole filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (save a little for topping) into the soup mixture. The cheese will melt into the sauce and create that gooey, creamy texture we all crave.
6. Assemble the casserole: In a baking dish (about 9×9 inches works well), layer the broccoli, then pour the creamy soup mixture over it. Stir gently to coat all the broccoli with the sauce.
7. Add the topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole. It will bake up crispy and golden, adding the perfect contrast to the creamy layers below.
8. Bake it: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice and serve.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this broccoli bake has a role to play in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures:

• Broccoli: The star of the show, providing both texture and nutrition. Rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, it’s a healthy, hearty vegetable that holds up beautifully in the creamy casserole.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is your shortcut to a creamy, rich sauce that brings everything together. It’s not just a filler-it adds a savory, umami-rich depth that complements the broccoli perfectly.
• Sour Cream: Adds a touch of tanginess to balance out the richness of the soup and cheese. It also gives the sauce a thicker, creamier consistency.
• Cheese: Who doesn’t love cheese? It adds a deliciously creamy texture, and the sharpness of cheddar works wonderfully with the earthy mushrooms in the soup. Parmesan, on the other hand, gives that crispy, golden topping a burst of savory flavor.
• Ritz Crackers: They add the essential crunchy topping, making each bite of the casserole a perfect balance between creamy and crispy.

Expert Tips

To take your broccoli bake to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

• Use fresh broccoli: While frozen broccoli works, fresh broccoli tends to retain a better texture when baked. Plus, it’s easier to control how tender you want it.
• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can get creative with other cheeses. A mix of Monterey Jack and Gruyère will give the dish a nice melty texture and a more complex flavor profile.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: If you blanch it, don’t cook it too long. You want it tender but still crisp enough to hold up to the creamy sauce and not get mushy in the oven.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
• Add some protein: For a more filling meal, you can toss in some cooked chicken or even a bit of crispy bacon.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Broccoli Bake: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan version or make your own creamy sauce using coconut milk or cashews. Use vegan cheese and crackers for a fully plant-based version.
• Add extra vegetables: Try throwing in some cauliflower, carrots, or even spinach to mix up the veggie profile of the dish. A little extra nutrition never hurts!
• Spicy Kick: Add a bit of red pepper flakes or jalapeños to give your casserole a spicy edge. It’s a fun twist that elevates the dish from comforting to exciting!
• Low-fat version: Use light cream of mushroom soup, low-fat cheese, and replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier spin on the recipe without sacrificing too much flavor.

Final Words

This Broccoli Bake with Cream Mushroom Soup is comfort food at its finest-simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. It’s a great way to get your greens in while still indulging in the rich, creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone loves.