This Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish topped with a buttery, golden crunch. With only five simple ingredients, it transforms humble frozen broccoli into a show-stopping side perfect for holidays or weeknight meals. The rich Velveeta cheese sauce smothers tender broccoli, while crushed Ritz crackers provide that irresistible crispy topping. It’s quick to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and full of nostalgic, homestyle flavor.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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2 (12-ounce) bags frozen broccoli florets
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8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
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½ cup margarine or butter, divided
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1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
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Freshly chopped parsley or chives, for garnish
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter an 8×8 or 9×9-inch casserole dish.
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Cook the broccoli according to package instructions, drain thoroughly, and set aside.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup butter with the Velveeta, stirring until smooth.
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Add the cooked broccoli to the casserole dish and pour the cheese sauce over it. Stir gently to combine.
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Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. In a small bowl, melt the remaining ¼ cup butter and mix it with the crumbs until coated.
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Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs evenly over the broccoli mixture.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the casserole is heated through.
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Let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley or chives and serve warm.
Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 290
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Protein: 7g
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Fat: 21g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 19g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 3g
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Sodium: 570mg
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Cholesterol: 30mg
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Part of the charm of Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers lies in its simplicity. It uses just a handful of ingredients—frozen broccoli, processed cheese, butter, and crackers—but delivers a rich and indulgent flavor that feels far more decadent than the sum of its parts. The creamy, melty cheese sauce coats every floret of tender broccoli, while the crushed Ritz crackers bake into a crisp, buttery topping that adds both texture and nostalgic appeal.
This isn’t a health food—but it’s not trying to be. It’s comfort food in its purest form, and it doesn’t pretend to be anything else. It’s unapologetically cheesy, a little salty, and completely satisfying.
Velveeta: The Secret Ingredient for Ultimate Creaminess
While many casseroles use shredded cheddar or a homemade béchamel, this version opts for Velveeta—the classic processed cheese product that’s beloved for its meltability and smooth texture. Velveeta gives the dish a signature creamy consistency that can’t be replicated with regular cheese. It melts evenly, doesn’t separate, and creates a sauce that clings perfectly to the broccoli without curdling.
This choice of cheese adds to the dish’s nostalgic roots. Velveeta has been a staple in American comfort food recipes for generations, from queso dips to mac and cheese. Its rich, mellow flavor complements the slight bitterness of broccoli and balances beautifully with the salty crunch of the cracker topping.
Ritz Crackers: Buttery Crunch in Every Bite
No casserole topping quite compares to Ritz crackers. Known for their rich, buttery flavor and light, flaky texture, these crackers are the ultimate way to crown a creamy casserole. When crushed and combined with melted butter, they form a crispy, golden crust that adds a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
This contrast in texture—between the soft, cheesy broccoli base and the crispy topping—is what makes this casserole irresistible. It’s not just about taste; it’s about mouthfeel, and Ritz crackers deliver on both fronts. They’re also an incredibly convenient option, requiring no fancy prep or equipment—just a quick crush in a bag and a stir with butter.
A Versatile Side Dish for Any Occasion
One of the great things about Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is its versatility. It’s just as welcome on a Thanksgiving table as it is at a casual cookout or a midweek family dinner. Its simple flavors complement a wide range of main dishes, from roasted meats to grilled seafood to vegetarian entrees.
It can be made ahead of time and baked when needed, making it ideal for entertaining or busy schedules. You can also double the recipe for a larger crowd or bake it in smaller portions for individual servings. Leftovers reheat well, making it a great choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or just looking for a side dish that everyone will eat without complaint, this casserole is a reliable, comforting option that always delivers.
Easy to Customize Based on Preference
While the classic version of this casserole is perfect as-is, it also lends itself well to customization. You can easily add extras like sautéed onions, garlic, mushrooms, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to turn it into a complete meal. Want a spicier twist? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Looking for more depth of flavor? A small amount of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce can add complexity without overwhelming the dish.
Those who prefer a fresher take might substitute fresh steamed broccoli for frozen, though the frozen version is wonderfully convenient and surprisingly tasty when baked. You can also experiment with different toppings—try mixing in some shredded cheddar with the Ritz crumbs, or use crushed potato chips or seasoned breadcrumbs for a new spin.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
One of the biggest selling points of this recipe is how kid-friendly it is. Broccoli might not always be a favorite at the dinner table, but when it’s coated in cheese and topped with buttery crackers, even picky eaters can’t resist. The familiar flavors and textures make it approachable for kids, while the nostalgic comfort appeals to adults.
It’s also a great way to get more veggies into your family’s meals without complaints. By turning broccoli into something indulgent and comforting, it becomes something everyone actually looks forward to eating.
A Nostalgic Taste of Home
For many people, Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition. It’s the casserole your grandmother made every holiday, the one you brought to potlucks in the church basement, the side dish that always disappeared first at family reunions. There’s a sense of comfort and connection in every bite, and that’s what makes this casserole truly special.
Its enduring popularity speaks to the way food can bring people together and create memories that last a lifetime. It may not be trendy or health-conscious, but it’s warm, familiar, and satisfying—the very definition of comfort food.
Nutritional Notes for a Classic Indulgence
While this dish is certainly indulgent, it does have a few redeeming qualities. Broccoli is naturally high in fiber, vitamin C, and other important nutrients. Using frozen broccoli keeps the preparation easy while still delivering nutritional benefits.
Velveeta and Ritz crackers do add sodium and fat, but the portion size can be easily adjusted, and it’s a dish meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Paired with a lean protein and a fresh salad, this casserole can fit comfortably into a balanced meal plan while still satisfying those cravings for creamy, cheesy comfort.
Conclusion: A Timeless Casserole That Brings Joy to the Table
Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers is the ultimate example of how simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and delicious. From the melty cheese sauce to the crispy cracker topping, it’s a dish that brings both flavor and nostalgia to every bite.
It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or making it as part of a casual weeknight dinner, this casserole offers a taste of home and a feeling of warmth that no trendy side dish can quite replicate.
So preheat the oven, crush those crackers, and get ready to serve up a classic that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. After all, comfort food never goes out of style—and this one is as comforting as it gets.