This broccoli casserole is made from scratch with a rich and flavorful homemade sauce instead of the typical canned soup. It's a delicious side dish for your next Sunday supper or a perfect addition to your next holiday meal!
8cupsbroccoli floretsaround 2 large crowns, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
4Tablespoonsbutterdivided
1cupdiced onion
2Tablespoons flour
1cupchicken stockpreferably low sodium or no salt
1½cupswhole milkor half and half
1teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper
3cupsshredded cheddar cheesedivided
16Ritz crackerscrushed, around ¾ cup
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375℉.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly softened. Drain into a colander. Run cold water over the broccoli until cooled, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
Set a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and cook for around 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are softened. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly browned.
Add the milk and chicken stock and whisk for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture comes to a simmer and begins to thicken. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in 2 cups of the cheese until melted. Let the mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes to thicken.
Add the broccoli to a 8x11 or 9x13 casserole dish. Pour the sauce mixture over the broccoli and stir to combine. Top with the remaining cheese and the crushed crackers.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Notes
Storage and ReheatingStore leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.Reheat leftovers in a 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through, or reheat smaller portions in the microwave.Make AheadPrepare the sauce and broccoli and combine them in the casserole dish 1 to 2 days in advance. Cover and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge 20 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Then add the topping and bake. You may need an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time.