Broccoli cheese casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. When you add Broccoli Cheese Casserole Paula Deen Salted Butter, you take this dish to a whole new level of indulgence. If you’re a fan of Southern cooking, you know that butter is the secret ingredient that makes everything taste better!
Whether you’re preparing this for a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck gathering, this broccoli cheese casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and expert insights to create the perfect casserole—rich, cheesy, and buttery with just the right balance of textures.
Why Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a Must-Try Dish
Broccoli cheese casserole is a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason:
Easy to make – Minimal prep, no fancy techniques, and simple ingredients.
Irresistible flavor – A combination of gooey cheese, creamy sauce, and tender broccoli.
Perfect for any occasion – Serve it as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even Sunday dinner.
Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters love it when veggies are smothered in cheese!
Make-ahead friendly – Prep it in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
If you’re looking for the best broccoli cheese casserole recipe with Paula Deen’s signature touch, this guide has everything you need.
The Secret to the Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Paula Deen is known for her rich, buttery Southern recipes, and her salted butter is a game-changer in this casserole. It adds:
A deep, savory richness that enhances the flavor of the cheese sauce.
A smooth, creamy texture that makes the casserole extra indulgent.
Perfect seasoning – The salt in the butter enhances the natural flavors of the broccoli and cheese.
How to Make the Ultimate Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Creating a rich, creamy broccoli cheese casserole is easy when you follow these simple steps.
1: Choose the Best Ingredients
For a casserole that’s bursting with flavor, start with high-quality ingredients:
- Fresh or frozen broccoli – Steamed or blanched for the perfect tenderness.
- Paula Deen’s salted butter is the key ingredient for a rich, Southern-style casserole.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – Adds a bold, cheesy flavor.
- Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup – Creates a creamy base.
- Sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess.
- Crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) – For a crispy, golden-brown topping.
- Eggs (optional) – Helps bind everything together for a firm texture.
2: Prepare the Broccoli
- If using fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets and steam or blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess water before using.
3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt Paula Deen’s salted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in a can of cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup for creaminess.
- Add sour cream and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt (optional, since the butter is already salted).
4: Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased baking dish, spread the steamed broccoli evenly.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and gently mix.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of crushed buttery crackers on top for a crunchy finish.
- Drizzle with melted Paula Deen’s butter to enhance the golden crust.
5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Want to take your casserole to the next level? Follow these pro tips:
Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Don’t overcook the broccoli – It should be slightly crisp before baking to prevent mushiness.
Add extra seasoning – Try a dash of paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick.
Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.
Double the cheese – For an extra gooey casserole, mix in mozzarella with cheddar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful! Avoid these common mistakes:
Using too much liquid – Too much soup or sour cream can make the casserole watery.
Skipping the butter – The rich flavor comes from Paula Deen’s salted butter—don’t skimp!
Forgetting the topping – A crispy, buttery cracker topping adds the perfect crunch.
Overcooking the casserole – Baking too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it!
Seasonal Variations & Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations:
Fall twist: Add cooked butternut squash or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm autumn flavor.
Garlic lovers: Sauté minced garlic in butter before adding the soup for extra depth.
Bacon lovers: Crumble crispy bacon on top before baking for a smoky crunch.
Spicy version: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole Paula Deen Salted Butter!
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, buttery broccoli casserole to bring people together. With Paula Deen’s salted butter as the star ingredient, this dish is rich, flavorful, and irresistible.
So why not give it a try? Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner, a cozy family meal, or a potluck, this broccoli cheese casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Happy cooking! 🍽️💛