Description
A comforting and cheesy casserole featuring broccoli and a flavorful French onion soup base, topped with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a side or a vegetarian main course, combining tender broccoli with creamy cheese and savory herbs baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
Casserole Mixture
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed French onion soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional)
- 1¼ teaspoons dried thyme (divided as ½ tsp optional for casserole and additional flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt, to taste
Topping
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions (divided: 1 cup in casserole and ½ cup for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam fresh broccoli florets until tender but still firm, or if using frozen broccoli, thaw and thoroughly drain any excess water to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the condensed French onion soup, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, dried thyme, and salt. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of the crispy fried onions. Optionally add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to help thicken the mixture.
- Combine with Broccoli: Gently fold the steamed or thawed broccoli into the mixture, ensuring it is well coated without breaking up the florets.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the broccoli mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes to allow the casserole to heat through and cheese to melt.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of crispy fried onions on top, then bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set slightly and to enhance flavors before serving.
Notes
- Steaming fresh broccoli preserves nutrients and texture better than boiling, ensuring a tender yet firm bite.
- Using crispy fried onions adds a delicious crunchy contrast; do not omit the topping for best texture.
- The optional flour helps to thicken the casserole filling for a creamier consistency, especially if the soup is thinner.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; add extra baking time if cooking from cold.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free fried onions and flour substitute.
- Try mixing in a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and depth in flavor.
