Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the flavors of classic French onion soup with creamy, cheesy broccoli.
Perfect side dish for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Easy to make with simple ingredients.
Crispy, golden fried onion topping adds an irresistible crunch.
Can be made ahead for easy meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh or frozen broccoli
Butter
Onion, thinly sliced
Garlic
All-purpose flour
Milk
Heavy cream
Cheddar cheese
Gruyère cheese
French onion soup mix or beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
French fried onions

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the onions until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for a minute, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, then add the French onion soup mix or beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
Reduce heat and mix in the cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the cooked broccoli with the cheese sauce, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Top with crispy fried onions and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Mix in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for extra heartiness.
Spicy twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Different cheeses: Swap Gruyère for Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Low-carb option: Use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a keto-friendly version.
Gluten-free version: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce and gluten-free fried onions.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?

Make sure to drain the broccoli well after steaming or blanching to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole (without the fried onions) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the fried onions just before baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it before using to prevent excess water in the casserole.

What can I use instead of French fried onions?

Panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter or crispy shallots make great substitutes.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

What cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar and Gruyère provide the best flavor, but you can also use Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses.

How do I get the onions perfectly caramelized?

Cook them low and slow with a pinch of sugar and salt, stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes.

Can I add mushrooms to this dish?

Yes! Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor to the casserole.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish and increase the ingredients proportionally. You may need to extend the baking time slightly.

What should I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a vegetarian main dish with a side of crusty bread.

Conclusion

French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together cheesy goodness, caramelized onions, and crispy toppings in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a simple family dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, cozy casserole that’s easy to make and full of flavor!

French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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This French Onion Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and savory side dish packed with tender broccoli, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy fried onions. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers comfort food with a delicious French onion twist!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Side Dish, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, French-inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat Oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Broccoli – If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture.
Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine French onion soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir in the broccoli.
Assemble – Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Top It Off – Sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions and the crushed Ritz crackers (if using) on top.
Bake for 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Final Touch – Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions, and bake for another 5 minutes until crisp.
Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and crunchy casserole!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use Gruyère cheese instead of mozzarella.
Want more protein? Add shredded rotisserie chicken to the mix.
This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
If you prefer a less salty dish, use low-sodium French onion soup and adjust the salt accordingly.