Cheesy Ranch Broccoli Bake with Ritz Cracker Topping
A creamy, comforting casserole that transforms fresh broccoli into a family-friendly side dish. Tender broccoli florets and colorful bell peppers are coated in a rich ranch-seasoned cheese sauce made from cream cheese, milk, and sharp cheddar. The dish is crowned with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs that bake to golden perfection, adding delightful crunch to every bite. This crowd-pleasing recipe works beautifully for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings when you want to make vegetables irresistible.
Ingredients
- 10 cups fresh small broccoli florets
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup water
- 1 container (8 oz) cream cheese spread, softened
- ½ cup milk
- 1 package (1 oz) ranch salad dressing & seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
- 15 Ritz crackers, coarsely brokenpanko breadcrumbs1/2 cup for 15 crackerstextureadds gluten
gives different crunch
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350°F and spray baking dish with cooking spray
- 2
Combine broccoli, bell pepper and water in microwavable bowl and cover with plastic wrap
- 3
Microwave on High for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes, until broccoli is bright and hot, then drain
- 4
Microwave cream cheese spread and milk uncovered on High for 1 minute and whisk to blend
- 5
Stir ranch dressing mix into cream cheese mixture and mix well
- 6
Add cheddar cheese and stir to combine
- 7
Pour cheese mixture over vegetables and toss to coat, then spread in prepared baking dish
- 8
Toss crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over broccoli
- 9
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly
Tips
Don't overcook the broccoli in the microwave - it will continue cooking in the oven and you want it to maintain some texture
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before microwaving for the smoothest sauce
For extra flavor, try using sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can be assembled up to 1 day ahead without the cracker topping. Add crackers just before baking.
Serve hot as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or baked ham.
Common Mistakes
Drain broccoli thoroughly after microwaving to avoid watery casserole
Don't skip softening the cream cheese or the sauce will be lumpy
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
thaw and drain thoroughly first
changes flavor profile completely
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, use the same amount of frozen broccoli florets. Thaw completely and drain very well before using to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Leftovers will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes, assemble the casserole without the cracker topping up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then add the buttered crackers just before baking.