Are you craving a warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion? Look no further! This broccoli casserole recipe with Ritz crackers and Velveeta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a timeless classic that's surprisingly easy to make. It's the epitome of homemade cooking, offering a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals (with a few tweaks!). Get ready to experience a truly delightful taste of comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups Ritz cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside. Don't overcook the broccoli; you want it to retain a bit of texture.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 5: Top with Crackers
In a small bowl, combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the broccoli mixture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a healthier version: Use reduced-fat Velveeta and substitute whole wheat Ritz crackers. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
- Creamier casserole: Use a combination of milk and cream for a richer cheese sauce.
- Different cracker topping: Experiment with other types of crackers, such as crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake when ready. Just keep it refrigerated until baking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This broccoli casserole recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on taste or quality. Enjoy this comforting classic, and remember to share your culinary creations with us! We love to see your delicious dishes!