Broccoli Casserole with Ritz crackers

Broccoli Casserole with Ritz crackers is a homey, comforting dish that’s packed with tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that gives just the right amount…

By Willow • February 21, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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Broccoli Casserole with Ritz crackers is a homey, comforting dish that’s packed with tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that gives just the right amount of crunch. The combination of soft veggies and crispy topping makes it a perfect side dish for family dinners or potlucks, where everyone wants something familiar but a little special.

I love making this casserole when I want something that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The secret is letting the Ritz crackers soak up some butter and then sprinkle them on top so they get golden and crispy in the oven. It’s such a simple trick but it really takes the dish from good to something people keep asking for again and again.

My favorite way to serve it is alongside roasted chicken or baked ham, but really, it pairs well with anything you’re serving for dinner. It’s one of those dishes that reminds me of family gatherings and holidays, where everyone reaches for seconds and the conversation flows easily. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, which I always appreciate on busy nights.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for a crisp texture, but frozen broccoli is a handy substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture making the casserole soggy.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. You can use cream of chicken soup instead for a different taste. For a lighter option, try a homemade white sauce or use Greek yogurt.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy flavor. You can swap with Colby, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for a smoother melt.

Mayonnaise or Sour Cream: Both add creaminess and tang. I like using sour cream for a slight tartness, but mayo works well too. Plain Greek yogurt could be a healthier alternative.

Ritz Crackers: These create a buttery, crunchy topping. If you don’t have Ritz crackers, crushed buttery crackers or panko mixed with melted butter make good substitutes.

How Do You Get the Ritz Cracker Topping Crispy and Golden?

The crunchy top is the star of this casserole, so the topping needs attention. Here’s how to nail it:

• Crush the Ritz crackers into even crumbs, not too fine, for texture.
• Mix crumbs well with melted butter to coat each piece, which helps with browning and flavor.
• Spread the topping evenly over the casserole to avoid soggy spots.
• Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. If it’s not brown enough, broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.

Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking so the topping hardens and stays crisp when serving.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 2-quart casserole dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
• Large mixing bowl – to combine all your ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Medium saucepan or steamer – great for cooking fresh broccoli just right.
• Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep flavor and texture balanced.
• Fork or potato masher – handy for crushing Ritz crackers evenly.
• Spatula or large spoon – for mixing and spreading the casserole mixture.
• Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot casserole dish when removing from the oven.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add cooked shredded chicken for a heartier meal; it blends well with the creamy sauce.
• Mix in diced red bell peppers or pimentos for a pop of color and mild sweetness.
• Sprinkle crispy cooked bacon on top for smoky crunch that pairs nicely with cheddar cheese.
• Use smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese to add smokiness or a little heat to the dish.

How to Make Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
• 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 30-40 crackers)
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional: 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper or pimentos for extra color and flavor

Time Needed:

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake. Plan to spend a few extra minutes letting the casserole cool before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Broccoli:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or boil it just until it’s tender—around 3 to 4 minutes—then drain it well. If using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained to keep your casserole from getting soggy.

2. Mix the Casserole Filling:

In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise or sour cream, cheddar cheese, chopped onion (if you like), milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Add Broccoli and Optional Veggies:

Gently fold the broccoli and the diced red bell pepper or pimentos (if using) into the creamy mixture, making sure everything is nicely coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the broccoli mixture evenly into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.

5. Make the Ritz Cracker Topping:

Crush the Ritz crackers into crumbs. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated.

6. Bake and Serve:

Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbly, and the topping turns golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.

What Can I Substitute for Ritz Crackers?

You can use other buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a similar crunchy topping.

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking to keep it crisp.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy or microwave with a cover for quicker reheating.