3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Easy 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole made with fresh or frozen broccoli, heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Make in a 9×13 casserole dish or serve in mini casserole ramekins.
I’m not gonna lie; this 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese ‘Casserole‘ isn’t much to look at, but sometimes sides just aren’t pretty! That being said, it’s super easy to make, and the FLAVOR is on point (which is what really matters most, IMO). So, if you’re looking for an easy broccoli and cheese casserole and you don’t care about aesthetic – this 3 ingredient recipe is going hit the spot.
How to Make this Easy 3 ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
These step-by-step photos show how to make broccoli and cheese casserole with 3 ingredients, but be sure to check the recipe card below for the full ingredient list and detailed instructions. Skip to the → Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe
1. Prep the broccoli for the 3 ingredient broccoli and cheese casserole
Trim off the broccoli stems, and chop the florets into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the broccoli with cream and cheese
Stir heavy whipping cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the softened microwaved broccoli.
3. Assemble the broccoli and cheese casserole
Distribute the broccoli mixture evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling up to the top edge. Top each ramekin with the remaining cheddar cheese.
4. Bake until melted and golden
Bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
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Full Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Never Lose This Recipe—Email It to Yourself!
Make sure you have it when you need it! Bonus: You’ll get family-approved recipes and meal-planning tips, too!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep the Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray eight 4-ounce ramekins or a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray. Place ramekins on a baking tray if using. Set aside.
- Prep the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, wash thoroughly, trim off the stems, and chop into bite-sized florets. If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess water.
- Soften the Broccoli: Place 5cups broccoli florets in a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave for 3–4 minutes, until just tender but still crisp. Carefully remove the plastic wrap.
- Season & Mix: Season the broccoli with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in 1 cup heavy whipping cream and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, tossing everything together until the broccoli is well coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Divide the broccoli mixture evenly among the ramekins, filling them to the top edge. If using a 9×13 dish, spread the mixture evenly across the bottom, ensuring it’s level.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each ramekin (or across the casserole if using a baking dish).
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 13–17 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t Use Wet Broccoli: Whether you’re using fresh or frozen broccoli, make sure it’s not too wet when it goes into the mix. If you’re using fresh, give it a good shake after washing. For frozen, let it thaw with a sprinkle of salt and then pat down with a paper towel. This helps avoid any unwanted sogginess in your broccoli cheese casserole.
- Block Cheese Is Best: For the best melt and flavor, stay away from pre-shredded cheese. It might take an extra minute, but shredding your own cheese right off the block ensures a smoother melt and a fresher taste.
- Distribute the Mix Evenly: When you’re distributing the broccoli mixture into the casserole, aim for an even spread. This helps every bite cook uniformly.
- Watch that Casserole: Keep a close eye on your broccoli cheese casserole in those last few minutes of baking. You’re looking for that perfect golden brown on top. It’s the sweet spot!
You’re 100% right that this did not look like anything amazing… but, like you said, it was easy to make and tasted good. Thanks!
You’re so welcome!
I made this to go along with some baked chicken and it turned out great! I did add the suggested bacon bits on top and I almost forgot I was eating broccoli.
Yess! I love it with bacon bits on top and sometimes I’ll add some Greek yogurt for like a mock potato (but, I mean nothing really can replace a good ol baked potato)