Baked Cheddar Broccoli Noodle Casserole

A comforting, creamy, oven-baked classic that turns simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal

There’s something timeless about a warm casserole coming out of the oven—golden on top, bubbling at the edges, and filled with creamy goodness. This Baked Cheddar Broccoli Noodle Casserole is exactly that kind of dish. It combines tender noodles, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese into a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to making it from scratch.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

12 oz (340 g) egg noodles
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2% preferred)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for depth)

For the topping (optional but recommended):

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko works great)
1 tablespoon melted butter
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until just al dente—slightly firm to the bite.

Why this matters: the noodles will continue cooking in the oven, so overcooking now can lead to a mushy texture later.

Drain the noodles and set aside.