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–+ servings
Cracker barrel broccoli cheddar casserole copycat recipe
Pamela Dunlap

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Casserole Recipe

When crafting the perfect meal, side dishes can often enhance the main attraction. Cracker Barrel's Broccoli Cheddar Casserole can stand alone, but pairing it with a few complementary dishes can turn dinner into something special.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked rice
  • 8 ounces broccoli chopped into bite-sized florets
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 16 ounces whole milk
  • 16 ounces processed American cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • 32 Ritz crackers or 1 standard sleeve, crushed
  • 4 ounces melted unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional, for extra flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper optional, for seasoning

Equipment

  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole gets the proper heat for that perfect bake.
  2. In a large pot, prepare your rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly.
  3. While your rice is cooling, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes to retain their color and slight crunch. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped broccoli, cream of chicken soup, whole milk, and both cheeses (American and Colby Jack). Mix until everything is well combined. There’s no need to hold back; make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed!
  5. Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish for easy removal later. Pour your mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted unsalted butter. Mix well, then sprinkle this tasty mixture evenly over the casserole. Those crackers will become golden and delicious in the oven!
  7. Place your filled baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is nice and golden brown, and the casserole is bubbly.
  8. Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This short wait helps it set up a bit. Serve it warm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2g

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli yields a better texture and taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses to customize the flavor—Monterey Jack or cheddar work well.
  • Try with Different Vegetables: Experiment with other veggies like cauliflower or carrots for a colorful addition.
  • Make It Ahead of Time: Assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. Bake it the next day for a quick meal.
  • Watch the Bake Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your casserole to avoid overcooking. You want it bubbly and golden, not dry.

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