Servings | Total Time | Difficulty | Calories
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
Baked Cheddar Broccoli Noodle Casserole
This Baked Cheddar Broccoli Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, it combines tender egg noodles, creamy cheddar broccoli soup, rich melted cheese, and a perfectly baked golden topping—all without boiling the pasta first. It’s an easy family-friendly dinner that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-boil pasta recipe
- Only 4 main ingredients
- One baking dish
- Rich, creamy cheese sauce
- Great for meal prep
- Budget-friendly
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Kid-approved comfort food
Ingredients
- 12 ounces uncooked wide egg noodles
- 2 cans (10.5–11 ounces each) condensed cheddar broccoli soup
- 3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup cooked broccoli florets
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Add the Noodles
Spread the dry egg noodles evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Do not boil them beforehand.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl whisk together:
- Cheddar broccoli soup
- Milk
Mix until completely smooth.
Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Reserve the remaining ½ cup for the topping.
Step 4: Assemble
Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the dry noodles.
Use a spoon to gently press the noodles into the liquid so they’re mostly submerged.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
If needed, bake an additional 5–10 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Remove the foil carefully.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
Step 7: Finish Baking
Return the dish to the oven uncovered.
Bake another 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
This helps the cheese sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
Tips for Success
- Always keep the noodles submerged in the liquid.
- Seal the foil tightly to trap steam.
- Freshly shred cheddar for the smoothest sauce.
- Don’t skip the resting time.
- Whole milk creates the creamiest texture.
Variations
Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Mix in 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken.
Ham & Cheddar
Add diced cooked ham for extra protein.
Vegetable Version
Stir in broccoli florets, peas, mushrooms, or spinach.
Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or buttered panko breadcrumbs over the cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Extra Cheesy
Use a blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella.
Kitchen Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Aluminum foil
- Wooden spoon
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Wrap the cooled casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Oven
Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes with a splash of milk if needed.
Microwave
Heat individual portions for 1–2 minutes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to boil the noodles first?
No. The noodles cook completely in the oven while absorbing the creamy sauce.
Why are my noodles still firm?
Usually because they weren’t fully submerged or the foil wasn’t sealed tightly enough.
Can I make it ahead?
Prepare the sauce ahead of time, but wait until just before baking to combine it with the dry noodles for the best texture.
Can I use another soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cream of mushroom all work well.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, peas, spinach, mushrooms, or mixed vegetables are excellent additions.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 980mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cheddar Broccoli Noodle Casserole is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. With its creamy cheddar sauce, tender noodles, and bubbly golden cheese topping, it’s a comforting family favorite that’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet delicious enough to serve at potlucks and holiday gatherings. One bite of this cheesy casserole, and it’s sure to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.
