If you are craving a dish that brings together the perfect balance of comfort and crunch, then the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe is exactly what you need to make tonight. This delicious casserole features tender broccoli enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce, topped with crunchy garlic butter pretzels that add an irresistible texture and flavor punch. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it an ideal side for family dinners or a standout dish at holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a family favorite that you want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple yet essential each ingredient is, working together to create a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crunchy. From the fresh broccoli that adds vibrant green color and nutritional goodness to the garlic butter pretzels that elevate the topping with a savory crunch, every component plays a crucial role in crafting this casserole’s unforgettable taste and texture.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Choose crisp, bright green broccoli for the freshest flavor and beautiful color.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for sautéing and making the creamy cheese sauce base.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with rich, aromatic flavor throughout.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides creaminess and balances the sharp cheddar cheese.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently rich and smooth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional): Offers a subtle tangy note that brightens the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided): The star ingredient for that irresistible cheesy flavor and gooey texture.
- 1 1/2 cups mini garlic butter pretzels (lightly crushed): Provides the signature crunchy topping with a hint of garlic and butter.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Used to coat the pretzels for extra richness and golden browning.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. Then, steam or blanch the fresh broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes—just enough so they are tender yet still bright green. This step ensures the broccoli stays crisp and visually appealing in the final casserole. Once done, drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the creamy cheese sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow its aroma to bloom. Sprinkle in the flour and cook while stirring for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir frequently until the sauce thickens, roughly 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional ground mustard for a subtle kick. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted into a silky, velvety sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the casserole
Gently fold the cooked broccoli into the cheese sauce, making sure each floret is fully coated with that creamy, cheesy goodness. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly for even cooking and presentation.
Step 4: Prepare the crunchy pretzel topping
In a small bowl, toss the lightly crushed mini garlic butter pretzels with melted butter to coat them well. This step ensures the topping will bake up golden and crisp. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, then top with the buttery pretzel mixture for that signature crunch.
Step 5: Bake and garnish
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until it is bubbling at the edges and the pretzels are beautifully golden brown on top. Once removed from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like to add a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives make wonderful garnishes. Their bright green color complements the broccoli and adds a fresh, vibrant aroma that balances the richness of the cheese sauce and the salty crunch of the pretzels.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken or pork for a hearty meal, or complement it with a light salad to add crispness and freshness. It also works well with creamy mashed potatoes or simple garlic bread to keep things comforting and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy broccoli cheddar casserole in individual ramekins for plated perfection. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass baking dish to showcase the vibrant green broccoli and golden pretzel topping. You could even turn it into a main course by stirring in shredded cooked chicken or cooked quinoa for added protein and heft.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness of the pretzel topping, you might want to add fresh crushed pretzels just before reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time until bubbly and heated through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains some crunch. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the pretzels soggy and the cheese sauce less appealing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well too. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid extra water making the casserole soggy.
What if I don’t have garlic butter pretzels?
You can substitute with plain pretzels tossed in melted butter and garlic powder or even crushed buttery crackers for a different but still satisfying crunch.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
While this casserole relies on cheese and cream for flavor and texture, you can try using dairy-free alternatives like plant-based cheese and cream, though results may vary.
How spicy is the casserole?
The casserole has a mild, comforting flavor with just a touch of black pepper—perfect for most palates. You can easily adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, carrots, or even peas can be great additions. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to keep everything tender yet firm.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing a memorable dish to a potluck, this casserole will impress with its rich flavors, delightful textures, and heartwarming appeal. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels is a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Tender broccoli florets are enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, milk, and cream, then topped with crunchy garlic butter pretzels for an irresistible texture contrast. Baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole combines creamy, savory, and crunchy elements that make vegetables exciting and satisfying.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Dry Ingredients & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups mini garlic butter pretzels, lightly crushed
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Steam the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green, then drain well and set aside; this prevents mushy texture later in the bake.
- Cook aromatics: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Make the roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook the mixture for 1 minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring frequently until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional ground mustard.
- Add cheese: Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine broccoli and sauce: Add the steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir gently to evenly coat all the florets.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, toss the lightly crushed garlic butter pretzels with melted butter to coat them well.
- Add finishing touches: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the broccoli casserole, then evenly distribute the pretzel mixture on top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in 1 cup of cooked shredded chicken or cooked quinoa before baking.
- Use store-bought garlic butter pretzel bites or twist-style pretzels, lightly crushed for topping crunch.
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli before baking to keep it from becoming mushy and maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
