Broccoli Puff

Broccoli Puff Casserole

Broccoli Puff — A comforting vintage broccoli casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery breadcrumbs. This easy side dish is a potluck favorite and pairs well with chicken, ham, or beef.

🥦 Broccoli Puff Casserole

A classic, crowd-pleasing side dish featuring tender broccoli baked in a velvety, rich cheese custard with a golden, buttery crumb topping.

⏱️ Bake Time: ~45 mins 🧀 Cheese: Sharp Processed American 🍳 Pan: 10 × 6 × 1 ½-inch Dish

Ingredients

The Broccoli Base & Cream:

  • 1 (10 oz) package frozen broccoli cuts
  • 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 oz sharp processed American cheese (shredded, about ½ cup)
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 egg (beaten)

Buttery Crumb Finish:

  • ¼ cup fine dry bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon butter (melted)

Baking Instructions

🌡️ Oven Temp: 350°F

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Prep the Broccoli: Cook the frozen broccoli cuts according to the directions on the package, then drain them extremely well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
  3. Arrange the thoroughly drained broccoli pieces evenly across the bottom of a 10 × 6 × 1 ½-inch baking dish.
  4. Build the Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup and the shredded sharp cheese.
  5. Gradually pour in the milk, mayonnaise, and beaten egg, stirring continuously until the mixture blends into a smooth, uniform sauce.
  6. Pour the cheese and soup mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli layer.
  7. Add the Crunch: In a small bowl, toss the fine dry bread crumbs with the melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture uniformly across the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes, pulling it when the crumbs turn a light golden brown and the entire dish is piping hot and bubbling around the edges.

FAQ

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes. Steam or boil fresh broccoli until just tender, drain very well, and use the same amount as one 10 oz frozen package.

Can I substitute another soup?

Yes. Cream of chicken or cream of celery work well as substitutes for cream of mushroom.

How do I keep the puff from getting watery?

Drain the broccoli thoroughly after cooking. Avoid adding extra liquid beyond the recipe.

Can I make Broccoli Puff ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole (without the crumb topping), cover, and refrigerate. Add the buttered crumbs just before baking for the best crunch.

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