Cheddars Restaurant Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe: A Creamy Delight for Family Gatherings

## DescriptionIf you’ve ever visited Cheddars Scratch Kitchen, you know that their Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a fan favorite. This dish perfectly blen……

## Description

If you’ve ever visited Cheddars Scratch Kitchen, you know that their Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a fan favorite. This dish perfectly blends creamy cheese sauce with tender broccoli, creating a comforting side that complements any meal. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the Cheddars Restaurant Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe, breaking down the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to make this dish a standout at your dinner table.

### Ingredients

To recreate the magic of Cheddars’ Broccoli and Cheese Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

- **Fresh Broccoli**: About 4 cups, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Fresh broccoli not only adds a vibrant green color but also provides a satisfying crunch.

- **Cheddar Cheese**: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for that rich, cheesy flavor. You can also mix in some mozzarella for added creaminess.

- **Cream of Mushroom Soup**: 1 can (10.5 oz) to bring creaminess and depth of flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to substitute with cream of chicken soup.

- **Sour Cream**: 1 cup for a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

- **Butter**: 2 tablespoons, melted, to enhance the richness of the casserole.

- **Seasonings**: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. These will elevate the flavors and make your dish truly delicious.

### Preparation Steps

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

2. **Prepare the Broccoli**: In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until it’s bright green but still crisp. Drain and set aside.

3. **Make the Cheese Mixture**: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until well blended. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder according to your taste preferences.

4. **Combine Ingredients**: Gently fold the blanched broccoli into the cheese mixture, ensuring that every piece is well coated.

5. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

6. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously gooey cheese layer once baked.

7. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. **Serve**: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone vegetarian option.

### Tips for the Perfect Casserole

- **Broccoli Alternatives**: If fresh broccoli isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

- **Cheese Variations**: Experiment with different cheese combinations. Adding a bit of Parmesan or Gruyère can elevate the flavor profile.

- **Make Ahead**: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

- **Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

### Conclusion

The Cheddars Restaurant Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a comforting experience that brings family and friends together. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, and let’s bring a taste of Cheddars to your home!