Dinner

Easy Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers Recipe

BySimon Carel November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

Introduction

This easy broccoli casserole with Ritz crackers is a comforting and cheesy side dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s creamy, flavorful, and topped with a delightful crunchy cracker crust. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and the satisfying textures it offers.

A slice of broccoli and cheese casserole is being lifted from a clear glass baking dish. The slice has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a light beige base, possibly a creamy mixture, the middle layer is melted white cheese with a string of cheese stretching from the dish to the slice, and the top layer features bright green broccoli florets with a slightly browned surface from baking. The broccoli looks tender and slightly crispy on the edges, scattered evenly across the top. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs broccoli, cut into florets
Water (for steaming broccoli)
8 oz cream cheese
¼ cup heavy cream
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp ranch seasoning
1 tbsp minced garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 large egg, at room temperature
½ cup mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup mayonnaise
Pepper, to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Place the broccoli florets in a bowl with a little water, cover with a lid, and microwave on high power for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Drain and transfer to a serving dish.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, parmesan, dijon mustard, ranch seasoning, garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, half of the mozzarella, mayonnaise, and pepper. Mix until the sauce is light and creamy.
Step 4: Pour the creamy cheese sauce into the prepared baking dish, reserving 2-3 tablespoons for topping. Spread it evenly.
Step 5: Arrange the steamed broccoli florets evenly over the cheese sauce layer.
Step 6: Spoon the reserved cheese sauce over the broccoli, then sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly on top.
Step 7: Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese over the cracker topping.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cracker topping is lightly browned.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
Substitute ranch seasoning with your favorite herb blend or onion soup mix for different tastes.
Use gluten-free crackers if you need a gluten-free version.
To save time, steam broccoli on the stovetop or use frozen pre-cut florets.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325 degrees F until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping as much as possible. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the cracker crust crunchy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baked dish showing a creamy white cheese layer melted and slightly browned on top, dotted with large, bright green broccoli florets scattered unevenly. The cheese layer has a smooth texture with some crunchy, golden brown bits mixed in. The broccoli pieces are fresh and textured, adding a vibrant green contrast to the white cheese. The dish is set in a clear glass pan, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain any excess water before using to avoid a soggy casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.