Craving a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s both easy to make and irresistible? This Loaded Broccoli Casserole is the perfect choice! Fresh broccoli is combined with a creamy, cheesy sauce and loaded with savory ingredients like crispy bacon, cheese, and a hint of garlic. Baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is the ultimate combination of rich and hearty, making it a perfect side dish or a satisfying main course. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, this Loaded Broccoli Casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Broccoli Casserole
This Loaded Broccoli Casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients that your family will love. The combination of tender broccoli, juicy chicken, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, this casserole will become a staple in your home!
Ingredients for Loaded Broccoli Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Loaded Broccoli Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
Fresh broccoli florets: These vibrant green gems are packed with nutrients and add a lovely crunch.
Cooked and shredded chicken: This adds protein and heartiness to the dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience!
Cooked quinoa: A fantastic gluten-free grain that boosts the fiber content and gives a nice texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese: This melty goodness brings richness and flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses for variety!
Cream of mushroom soup: This creamy base ties everything together, adding moisture and depth.
Sour cream: It adds a tangy creaminess that balances the flavors beautifully.
Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this brings a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
Onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth without the hassle of chopping onions.
Black pepper: A dash of this spice enhances all the flavors and adds a bit of warmth.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Crispy fried onions: These are the crowning glory! They add a delightful crunch and savory finish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting the chicken with extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes!
Exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Loaded Broccoli Casserole
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Loaded Broccoli Casserole. Follow along, and I promise you’ll have a comforting meal in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. No one wants a soggy bottom, right? So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh broccoli florets, shredded chicken, cooked quinoa, and shredded cheddar cheese. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated. This step is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Next, grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully transfer the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; it’ll all come together in the oven!
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbly and the top is starting to turn golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 5: Add Toppings and Finish Baking
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. This is the fun part! Sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top. These little gems add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Pop it back in the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling with joy.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you dig in!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture; frozen can become mushy.
Don’t skip the crispy fried onions—they’re the secret to a delightful crunch!
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal. Any oven-safe dish will do!
Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions. You can also use standard cups if needed.
Spoon or spatula: For mixing and spreading the casserole. A wooden spoon is perfect!
Variations
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat to your casserole.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
Quinoa Variations: Substitute quinoa with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Salad: Pair your Loaded Broccoli Casserole with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Can I make Loaded Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
Can I freeze Loaded Broccoli Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it well, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for quinoa in this recipe?
If quinoa isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Both will work well and still provide a hearty texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I add more vegetables to the Loaded Broccoli Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and customize the dish to your family’s taste.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing love with those we cherish. My Loaded Broccoli Casserole embodies that spirit, bringing together wholesome ingredients in a dish that warms the heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to delight everyone at the table. The joy of watching my loved ones savor each bite is what makes this recipe truly special. I hope it brings as much happiness to your home as it has to mine. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious moment!
A deliciously easy Loaded Broccoli Casserole recipe that combines fresh broccoli, chicken, quinoa, and cheese for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup crispy fried onions (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded chicken, cooked quinoa, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
