Creamy Spinach Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Spinach Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked vegetable dish that transforms simple ingredients into comforting perfection. Tender broccoli and spinach are combined with a rich cheese sauce, topped with melted cheese (and optional crispy breadcrumbs), then baked until golden and bubbly.Ready in just 45 minutes, this versatile casserole works beautifully as a holiday side dish, potluck favorite, or hearty vegetarian main course. It’s easy to customize, make ahead, and store making it a reliable go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets about 1 large head
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream for richer texture
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- ½ cup breadcrumbs optional topping
- 2 tablespoons butter melted (for topping)
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of ground nutmeg optional
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Broccoli
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics and Spinach
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted (if using fresh).
- If using frozen spinach, ensure it is fully drained before adding.
- Remove from heat.
Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine: Softened cream cheese, Sour cream, Milk, Shredded cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping), Mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese (if using), Salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg
- Stir until smooth and well blended.
Combine Everything
- Fold in the cooked broccoli and spinach mixture. Stir until all vegetables are evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Rest and Serve
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help it set.