Easy Leftover Broccoli casserole (cream of mushroom)

Leftover Broccoli Casserole: cream of mushroom recipe – Turn your leftovers into a delicious meal with this simple broccoli casserole recipe. Cheesy, comforting, and utterly satisfying, this dish transforms basic ingredients into something special. It’s my favorite way to use up leftover broccoli. There’s nothing quite like a delicious, cheesy, and irresistibly cozy plate of broccoli casserole. The charm of this Leftover Broccoli Casserole is in its deep flavors and cozy texture, making it an ideal side dish to feed the entire family using food from the day before. It’s the ultimate comfort casserole dish that even picky eaters will love!

Pure comfort food: easy broccoli casserole recipe 

This easy crowd-pleasing broccoli bake is perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep time, it comes together as the ultimate quick meal! It’s my go-to easy casserole recipe, ideal as both a main dish or a simple weeknight side. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of favorite recipes.

I’m always searching for easy casserole recipes because they’re not only incredibly delicious but also versatile enough to serve as both side dishes and main courses. While a casserole can stand alone as a complete meal, feel free to pair it with creative sides to satisfy everyone. Once the cheese melts into gooey perfection, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. This comforting side is a great choice for any dinner table.

The best broccoli cheese casserole recipe 

A great recipe hits all the right flavor notes, and this broccoli cheese casserole is no exception. Take those leftovers from last night and transform them into today’s hit. Serve this delicious casserole with a side of white rice. Picture tender broccoli smothered in creamy cheese sauce, all atop fluffy rice. This is a wonderful way to delight the whole family with a simple, scrumptious dish. Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this cheesy broccoli casserole!

How to repurpose broccoli 

Using leftover broccoli in casseroles is a great way to give this nutritious vegetable a tasty second chance. Instead of letting those extra florets go to waste, adding them to casseroles not only cuts down on food waste but also enhances the texture and flavor of your dish.

Broccoli holds up nicely in casseroles, keeping its slightly crisp texture while soaking up the flavors of the creamy sauces and cheeses that are often used in these recipes. It’s a flexible ingredient that pairs well with a variety of flavors, whether it’s combined with creamy mushroom soup, cheesy sauces, or blended with savory herbs and spices.

By turning leftover broccoli into casseroles, you’re not just being resourceful; you’re also making hearty, comforting meals that are perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s a win-win that turns simple leftovers into something truly satisfying and delicious.

What is broccoli Cheese casserole made of

This broccoli cheese casserole is a creamy and comforting dish made with just a few simple ingredients:

To start, you’ll need chopped broccoli — about three 10-ounce packages of frozen chopped broccoli. Next, there’s the creamy base, which consists of a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and some mayo for added richness. For flavor, we’ll include chopped onions and minced garlic to give it a nice kick.

And of course, what’s a cheesy casserole without cheese? You’ll be mixing in shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, which melts into gooey goodness when baked. To season everything, add salt, pepper, paprika for a hint of smokiness, and dried thyme for that herby touch. It’s the perfect chilly day casserole dish. 

Combine all the ingredients, bake until it’s bubbly and golden on top, and you’ll have a hearty and satisfying broccoli cheese casserole ready to enjoy! For a deluxe twist to this easy broccoli casserole recipe add crunchy crackers on the top of the casserole. The melted cheese and crunchy crackers combo gets a 5 star rating every time!

Simple broccoli casserole equipment 

Equipment Needed to Make Leftover Broccoli Casserole

1. Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.

2. Cutting Board: To chop onions, garlic, and any additional vegetables you may want to include.

3. Knife: For chopping onions, garlic, and other vegetables.

4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out ingredients accurately in both cups and grams.

5. Can Opener: To open the can of condensed cream of mushroom soup.

6. Cheese Grater: To shred the Cheddar cheese and any other cheese you might want to use.

7. Large Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the casserole ingredients together.

8. 9×13-Inch Baking Dish (23×33 cm): To bake the casserole in.

9. Aluminum Foil: To cover the casserole while baking to prevent the top from browning too quickly.

10. Oven Mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish.

11. Oven: To bake the casserole.

12. Serving Spoon: For serving the casserole once it’s done.

Optional Equipment:

1. Blender or Food Processor: If you prefer a smoother mixture or need to puree dates for additional sweetness.

2. Whisk: For mixing sauces or combining ingredients more thoroughly.

3. Storage Containers: For storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

Having these tools on hand will help ensure that your leftover broccoli casserole turns out perfectly and is easy to prepare.

Broccoli casserole recipe – cream of mushroom soup ingredients 

Ingredient Breakdown for Leftover Broccoli Casserole

Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 ounces/298 grams)  

A can of cream of mushroom soup is a quick and easy way to enhance the flavor of your dish. It provides a rich, creamy base for the casserole, infusing it with earthy mushroom notes and a smooth texture. You can also substitute it with a cream cheese sauce, onion sauce, or your favorite creamy sauce. For a homemade touch, consider making your own homemade cream of mushroom soup, which works wonderfully in broccoli casserole. Personally, I love using my homemade vegan cream of mushroom soup for this broccoli cheese casserole recipe. It’s packed with flavor and always a crowd-pleaser.

Mayonnaise (1 cup/240 grams)  

This ingredient adds a creamy, tangy element that boosts the richness of the casserole and helps hold everything together. If you’re looking for a vegan option, vegan mayonnaise is a great choice for this family-friendly side dish!

Chopped Onion (1/2 cup/75 grams)  

Onion brings a touch of sweetness and a mild, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. You can choose yellow, white, or red onions for this easy side dish. Leeks are also a fantastic addition to this simple broccoli recipe.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced)  

Garlic adds a robust, aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste of the casserole.

Leftover Cooked Broccoli (3 packages, 10 ounces/284 grams each, chopped)  

As the star of the dish, broccoli provides a healthy, nutritious component with a satisfying texture and flavor. You can also use frozen broccoli for this comforting recipe, or fresh broccoli florets for an easy option. All varieties of broccoli work well in this delicious bake. 

Flavor ingredients

Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (8 ounces/225 grams)  

This cheese adds a rich, cheesy flavor and helps bind the casserole together, creating that irresistible cheesy goodness. It’s sure to make this easy weeknight side dish a crowd pleaser.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon/2.5 grams) and Pepper (1/2 teaspoon/1.25 grams)  

These essential seasonings elevate the overall flavor, ensuring the casserole is seasoned just right.

Paprika (2 teaspoons/4 grams)  

This spice adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor along with a splash of color, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal of the casserole.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon/1 gram)  

It brings a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the broccoli and cheese, adding depth to the dish. It also introduces a hint of Italian flair to this delightful meal.

Together, these ingredients create a comforting leftover broccoli casserole, perfect for transforming leftovers into a family favorite. Each component plays a crucial role, making this dish a flavorful and satisfying addition to your recipe collection.

Leftover broccoli casserole 

Turn your leftovers into a delicious treat with this simple Broccoli Casserole. Cheesy, comforting, and full of flavor, this dish is ideal for the entire family. Using easy-to-find ingredients like frozen broccoli, sharp Cheddar, and a creamy mushroom sauce, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of last night’s vegetables. Whether served as a side or a main dish, this casserole is sure to become a beloved family favorite!

Casserole recipe cream of mushroom soup Ingredients:

• 1 (10.5 ounce/298 grams) can condensed cream of mushroom soup – vegan option: vegan cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup (240 grams) mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup (75 grams) chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 (10 ounce/284 grams each) leftover cooked broccoli, chopped 
• 8 ounces (225 grams) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5 grams) and pepper (1.25 grams), more to taste if needed
• 2 teaspoons (4 grams) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (1 gram) dried thyme

How to make casserole recipe cream of mushroom soup instructions 

How to make leftover broccoli casserole Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. 

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, chopped onion, minced garlic, and salt and pepper. Mix well.

3. Drain the broccoli of any liquid, then add it to the mixture. Stir in the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, paprika, and dried thyme until well combined.

4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes-1 hour, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious leftover broccoli casserole!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking and enjoy this comforting, cheesy casserole as a side dish or main course.

Leftover broccoli casserole tips and tricks 

Here are some tips to elevate your leftover broccoli casserole:

    1.    Add a Twist with Red Pepper and French-Fried Onions: Boost the flavor and texture by mixing in diced red pepper and crispy French-fried onions. For an extra crunch, sprinkle more French-fried onions on top before serving.

    2.    Experiment with Different Cheeses: Instead of just sharp Cheddar, try blending American, Cheddar, and creamy Velveeta cheeses for a unique flavor that melts beautifully throughout the casserole. It’s a perfect addition to the easy recipe.

    3.    Substitute Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of onion soup or a jar of Alfredo sauce as a tasty alternative to keep that creamy consistency.

    4.    Top with Ritz Crackers: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers over the perfect side dish casserole before baking. This cracker topping topping adds a buttery, crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy broccoli mixture. It’s a great addition for a holiday table or a cozy day. There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of crackers and melted cheese. Yum!

    5.    Enhance with Panko Breadcrumbs: Stir in 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs into the broccoli mixture before baking. This will give you a light, crispy topping that enhances both the texture and the visual appeal of your casserole.

These tips will introduce delicious variations and textures to your leftover broccoli casserole, making it a standout dish for any meal.

Broccoli casserole recipe cream of mushroom soup flavor variations 

Broccoli Casserole Recipe: Cream of Mushroom Soup Flavor Variations and Add-ins (Vegetarian)

Flavor Variations:

1. Cream of Celery Soup: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery soup for a lighter, celery-flavored variation.

2. Cream of Asparagus Soup: Use cream of asparagus soup for a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the broccoli. It’s a delicious twist in the classic best broccoli casserole.

3. Cream of Potato Soup: For a heartier option, try cream of potato soup, adding a creamy, comforting twist to the comforting side dish casserole.

4. Cream of Cauliflower Soup: Swap out the mushroom soup for cream of cauliflower soup for a delicate, mild flavor that pairs well with broccoli.

5. Cream of Carrot Soup: Add a slightly sweet, vibrant twist by using cream of carrot soup, which adds color and depth of flavor.

Add-ins:

1. Cheese Variations:

   – Gruyère: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the casserole.

   – Parmesan: Adds a sharp, salty taste.

   – Feta: Crumble in some feta for a tangy twist.

   – Goat Cheese: For a creamy and slightly tangy flavor.

2. Vegetable Add-ins:

   – Spinach: Add fresh or frozen spinach for extra greens.

   – Bell Peppers: Add diced red, yellow, or green bell peppers for a sweet and colorful crunch.

   – Carrots: Thinly sliced or grated carrots add sweetness and texture.

   – Zucchini: Add thinly sliced zucchini for a mild, tender addition.

   – Cauliflower: Mix in some cauliflower florets for a complementary texture.

3. Herbs and Spices:

   – Basil: Fresh basil can add a sweet, peppery flavor.

   – Oregano: Dried or fresh oregano can add a Mediterranean touch.

   – Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthy flavor.

   – Rosemary: Finely chopped fresh rosemary can add a fragrant, pine-like aroma.

4. Grains and Beans:

   – Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa for extra protein and texture.

   – Brown Rice: Mix in cooked brown rice for a heartier casserole.

   – Chickpeas: Add cooked chickpeas for protein and a nutty flavor.

   – Lentils: Cooked lentils add texture and nutritional value.

5. Nuts and Seeds:

   – Sliced Almonds: Toasted almonds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.

   – Sunflower Seeds: Sprinkle sunflower seeds for a crunchy topping.

   – Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add a delicate, buttery taste.

Dairy free options

6. Dairy-Free Alternatives:

   – Cashew Cream: Replace cream of mushroom soup with homemade cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

   – Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet variation.

   – Nutritional Yeast: Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.

By mixing and matching these flavor variations and add-ins, you can customize your broccoli casserole to suit your taste preferences while keeping it vegetarian and delicious!

How to store and reheat leftover broccoli casserole 

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Broccoli Casserole

Storing Leftover Broccoli Casserole:

1. Cool Completely: Let the casserole cool down entirely before storing it to avoid condensation and sogginess.

2. Transfer to Airtight Containers: Move the leftovers into an airtight container. If you prefer to store it in the baking dish, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

3. Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator. The casserole can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

4. Freeze (Optional): For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Leftover Broccoli Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare for Reheating: If the casserole was in the fridge, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. If it was frozen, make sure it’s completely thawed.

3. Cover the Casserole: If the casserole isn’t already in an oven-safe dish, transfer it to one. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep the top from drying out.

4. Reheat in the Oven: Bake the covered casserole in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up.

5. Microwave Option: If you’re short on time, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating.

Additional Tips:

– Add Moisture: If the casserole seems a bit dry when reheating, you can add a splash of milk or broth before covering and baking.

– Freshen Up: Top with a little extra cheese or fresh breadcrumbs before reheating to refresh the dish and add extra texture and flavor.

What I’ve been making lately

• Tortang Talong recipe: Filipino eggplant omelette
• Homemade Seasoning for Rice Recipe: The Best Spice for Rice
• Easy Tofu dessert 豆腐花 | Chinese Silken pudding recipe
• Best Seasoning for Burgers: Homemade spice blend
• How to cook Steamed Basmati rice recipe + rice cooker

Casserole recipe cream of mushroom soup Tips and Substitutes

More Casserole Recipe Tips and storage

More recipes you might enjoy

• Best vegetable Indian curry
• Easy Broccoli Potato Casserole (vegan cheesy bake recipe)
• Brinjal Curry recipe (vegan)
• Delicious Green Thai curry recipe
• Easy vegan chickpea curry
• Coconut chickpea lemon curry

More cozy side recipes 

• Pumpkin Panzanella salad
• Vegan Waldorf salad 
• Easy vegan mashed potatoes 
• Vegan Béarnaise sauce 
• Easy vegan gravy 
• Vegan sweet potato mash
• Crispy maple sesame roast potatoes