Cheesy Broccoli Noodle Casserole

May be an image of pasta

Cheesy Broccoli Noodle Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Noodle Casserole is the kind of comforting, family-style dish that turns simple pantry ingredients into a hearty meal. Tender noodles are combined with crisp-tender broccoli, a creamy savory sauce, and plenty of melted cheese before everything is baked until bubbling and golden on top. It is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but cozy enough to serve when you want something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients

12 ounces egg noodles
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt, plus more for the pasta water
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Preparing the dish first makes the final assembly easier because the noodles and sauce can be transferred directly into the baking dish once they are ready.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions, but stop cooking them about 1–2 minutes before they are fully tender.

The noodles will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking them helps prevent the casserole from becoming soft or mushy.

Drain the noodles well and set them aside.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

While the noodles are cooking, bring another pot of water to a boil or use the same pot after removing the noodles.

Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2–3 minutes, just until they become bright green and slightly tender. Drain immediately and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.

You want the broccoli to retain a little bite because it will cook again while the casserole bakes.