A Historical Overview
Casseroles have been a beloved staple in American kitchens since the early 20th century, when one-dish meals gained popularity for their convenience and comfort. Rooted in French cuisine (the word “casserole” means “pan”), these hearty dishes became a household favorite during the 1950s, thanks to their ability to stretch ingredients and feed families economically. Over time, broccoli casseroles joined the scene, often mixed with cheese and pasta, becoming a staple at holiday tables, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. Today, this dish is a true comfort food classic.
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Delight – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Delight is creamy, golden, and absolutely comforting. Perfect for cozy winter evenings, family gatherings, or even a holiday side dish, it combines tender broccoli, hearty pasta, and melty cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Easy to prepare and oven-baked to perfection, it’s a wholesome recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something special. If you love cheesy, bubbly, and heartwarming dishes, this casserole is destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
-
3 cups cooked elbow macaroni
-
3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
-
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
-
1 cup milk
-
2 tbsp butter
-
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
-
1/2 tsp garlic powder
-
1/2 tsp onion powder
-
Salt & pepper to taste
-
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
-
2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
-
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
-
Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.
-
Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
-
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, corn, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
-
Pour into prepared baking dish.
-
In a small bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle over casserole.
-
Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Substitute cauliflower for broccoli for a fun twist.
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs if needed.
Add cooked chicken for a protein-packed version.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready, adding 5–10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
2. What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess and flavor. A little Parmesan in the sauce also adds depth.
3. How do I make it healthier?
You can lighten it up by using whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. Adding extra veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or spinach also boosts nutrition while keeping it delicious.
