Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake for my family. It's become a cherished tradition that brings everyone together for a delightful meal. The combination of tender broccoli and creamy cheese sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while still satisfying our cravings for comfort food. I promise that this scrumptious dish will become a staple in your home just like it has in mine. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create a heartwarming experience!

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:49:07.637Z

I remember the first time I made this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake; it was a chilly day, and the warmth of the oven filled our home with comforting smells. I was so proud when my family gathered around the table, eagerly digging in and complimenting the dish. It was a moment of joy that I cherish!

This recipe works beautifully because the combination of cheese and broccoli creates a rich flavor that pleases everyone’s palate. I use sharp cheddar for its bold taste, and I’ve found that adding a sprinkle of garlic powder takes it to another level. Give it a try!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness that makes vegetables irresistible
Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of garlic and spices
Great as a side or a main dish, everything is better when it's cheesy!

      

Perfecting Your Broccoli

To achieve the best texture in your Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, it's important to steam the broccoli just right. Aim for that vibrant green color, which indicates it’s cooked but still crisp. If you find your broccoli becoming too limp, reduce steaming time to around 3-4 minutes. Overcooked broccoli can detract from the dish's texture, making it mushy rather than providing a delightful crunch.

Using fresh broccoli will yield the best results, as frozen broccoli often contains excess moisture that can affect the overall consistency of your bake. But if you're in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli—just ensure it's thawed and well-drained before adding it to the mix. This small step makes a huge difference in the final product.

Building Layers of Flavor

The creamy sauce acts as the heart of this dish, and using a high-quality cream of mushroom soup can elevate the flavor profile significantly. If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own mushroom cream sauce. Sauté finely chopped mushrooms with a bit of butter and garlic, then blend with cream for a fresher, richer taste.

In addition to garlic powder, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the sauce for an unexpected kick. This accentuates the flavors of cheese and broccoli, creating a more sophisticated flavor experience that tantalizes your taste buds.

Topping and Variations

The breadcrumb topping adds a pleasing crunch, but for a twist, consider using crushed cornflakes or panko for an even crispier texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply switch out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties. You can also mix in some herbs or grated Parmesan to your breadcrumb topping for added depth.

This recipe is highly versatile. You can experiment by adding cooked chicken or bacon for a heartier meal or mix in other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower. Each variation brings a new dimension to the Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Bake, allowing you to customize it to your family’s preferences.

Ingredients

Start your Sunday with these fresh ingredients!

Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Bake

4 cups broccoli florets
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Gather these ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps for a cheesy delight!

Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and set aside.

Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

Combine and Bake

Add the steamed broccoli and 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese to the sauce, mixing well to coat the broccoli. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.

Bake It

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. Enjoy your delightful and cheesy broccoli bake!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding some crispy bacon bits or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before baking.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep well for about 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the dish's original texture and flavor, rather than sogging it up in the microwave.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, you can fully assemble the casserole and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Broccoli Bake makes an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, from roast chicken to grilled steaks. Depending on your palate, you can pair it with a light salad to balance out the richness of the cheese. The dish also works beautifully as a standalone vegetarian option during a cozy family dinner.

Consider garnishing the finished bake with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a layer of flavor that complements the creamy dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Absolutely! You can use low-fat cheese and replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using low-fat milk and mushrooms.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This cheesy broccoli bake pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.