Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe
Get ready to steal the show at your next family dinner or potluck with this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels. This dish takes crisp-tender broccoli, wraps it in a luscious cheese sauce, and tops everything with an irresistible layer of buttery, garlicky pretzels. Every bite combines comfort, crunch, and bold flavor—it’s a playful twist on classic broccoli cheddar casserole that everyone will crave. Trust me, you’ll want to make this irresistible casserole a new go-to favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels truly stand out? The secret’s in the simple yet thoughtful lineup of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each item pulls its weight, either bringing bold flavor, creamy texture, or a pop of color—nothing is here by accident!
- Fresh broccoli florets (4 cups, lightly steamed): The star vegetable, offering green crunch and color. Steam just until tender for best texture!
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons melted): Adds richness to both the cheese sauce and the pretzel topping.
- Small yellow onion (diced): Brings mellow sweetness and savory balance to the creamy sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for infusing that unmistakable garlicky depth into both the sauce and the crunchy topping!
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the sauce for that perfect, scoopable texture.
- Whole milk (1 1/2 cups): Lends creaminess without overpowering the cheese.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Gives the casserole a tangy kick and velvety mouthfeel.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds sharpness and brightness, enhancing the cheese.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential seasoning to make every flavor pop.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): For subtle warmth and a pretty hint of color.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 1/2 cups, divided): The ooey-gooey centerpiece that brings the casserole together.
- Mini pretzels (1 1/2 cups, roughly crushed): These create the unique, crunchy topping that makes this recipe shine.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures every bite of pretzel topping packs garlicky goodness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): For a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and giving your baking dish a light grease (nonstick spray or butter both work!). Lightly steam the broccoli for just 3–4 minutes, so it’s crisp-tender and vibrantly green. Drain it well—no sogginess allowed—and set it aside. This quick prep keeps the broccoli from getting mushy while baking.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in the diced onion and sauté it until it starts turning soft and golden, about 4–5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let everything stew for one more fragrant minute. This base layer gives the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels its homestyle savoriness.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Time for a luscious sauce! Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which helps thicken everything up. Then, gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to keep things smooth and lump-free. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until it’s just thickened—your whole kitchen will start to smell amazing.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add in 2 cups of that glorious sharp cheddar, stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce. Fold in your perfectly steamed broccoli florets, making sure every piece gets coated. Spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Pretzel Topping
Now comes the magic. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed mini pretzels with the melted butter and garlic powder until every piece is deliciously glossy. Sprinkle this mixture all over the broccoli casserole, then scatter the last 1/2 cup of cheddar on top for gooey, golden brown edges.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. Watch for bubbling cheese and a golden-brown pretzel topping—it’s done when it looks absolutely irresistible! If you’re after a little extra color, pop it under the broiler for 1–2 minutes. Don’t forget a finishing sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels
Garnishes
A good garnish makes all the difference with Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels. Add a shower of chopped fresh parsley right out of the oven for a pop of green and a touch of flavor. You can also try a dash of extra black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika if you’d like a little more color on top!
Side Dishes
This comforting casserole truly shines alongside simple favorites. It’s perfect next to roasted chicken, grilled sausages, or a holiday ham. If you want to keep things completely vegetarian, consider pairing it with a crisp garden salad or fluffy rice pilaf—the casserole’s savory richness loves a fresh, light contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow a crowd, try spooning individual servings of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels into ramekins for personal portions. You can even layer the casserole into small Mason jars or create mini bites for a party platter. Don’t shy away from a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The crunch of the pretzels will soften over time, but the flavors only deepen and become more cozy.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole up to the point before adding the pretzel topping. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the fresh pretzel topping, and bake as directed.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. For an extra-crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for a minute or two right before serving—just keep a close eye on it!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole, so you don’t end up with excess moisture. The texture might be slightly softer, but it still tastes great.
What type Side Dish
Mini pretzels are ideal because they’re easy to crush and distribute evenly across the top. You can use regular twisted pretzels, pretzel sticks, or even gluten-free pretzels if you need a wheat-free option.
Can I add protein to make this a main dish?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken, diced cooked ham, or crispy bacon can be folded in with the broccoli and cheese sauce to turn this casserole into a hearty main. It’s a great way to use up leftovers.
Is this casserole spicy?
Not at all—the mild paprika adds a gentle warmth but no heat. If you prefer a bit of spice, try stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper or serving with hot sauce.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are excellent alternatives to sour cream in this recipe. Both add tang and a creamy texture without changing the flavor much.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a show-stopping side or a veggie dish that brings everyone back for seconds, Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels is an absolute must-try. Once you see those smiles at the dinner table, this golden, bubbling casserole might just become your signature comfort food. Enjoy!
Print
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with Garlic Butter Pretzels Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this delicious Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Casserole with a crispy Garlic Butter Pretzel topping. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
Pretzel Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups mini pretzels (roughly crushed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. Steam broccoli.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter, sauté onion and garlic. Add flour, cook briefly.
- Create Sauce: Whisk in milk, simmer until slightly thickened. Add sour cream, mustard, seasonings, and 2 cups cheese.
- Assemble: Fold in broccoli, transfer to dish.
- Prepare Topping: Mix pretzels with butter and garlic powder.
- Bake: Sprinkle pretzel mix over casserole, add remaining cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in cooked shredded chicken.
- You can use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain well before using.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
