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Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe

Let me tell you, this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe is one of those comforting, nostalgic dishes that just hits the spot. It’s like a warm hug on a plate — creamy, crunchy, and packed with wholesome veggies that sneak in some extra goodness without even trying. Whether you’re making a weeknight side or bringing something to a family gathering, this recipe holds its own every time.

What I love most about this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe is how effortlessly it balances textures and flavors. The tender broccoli and sweet corn blend perfectly with that buttery, crispy crouton topping — it’s a combo that’s simply irresistible. You’ll find yourself making this over and over, especially when you want easy comfort food that doesn’t skimp on taste.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfect Texture Contrast: Creamy broccoli and corn are wonderfully offset by a crispy, buttery crouton topping.
  • Simple & Quick: Using frozen broccoli and canned corn keeps prep fast without compromising flavor.
  • Family Friendly: This dish appeals to kids and adults alike, making it great for any meal.
  • Versatile Side: Works alongside a variety of main courses, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe plays a vital role, from texture to flavor balance. I always suggest picking good-quality seasoned croutons to elevate the crunch, and don’t overlook the simple sweetness that cream-style corn brings to the table.

  • Frozen chopped broccoli: Convenient and consistent in quality, it’s easier than fresh and still nutritious.
  • Cream style corn: Adds a creamy sweetness that binds the dish nicely without extra cream.
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors subtly without overpowering.
  • Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together effortlessly.
  • Onion (chopped): Adds a mild sharpness that brightens the dish.
  • Black pepper: For a gentle peppery kick without being too spicy.
  • Butter or margarine (melted): The key to that luscious mouthfeel and crispy topping.
  • Seasoned croutons: These bring the signature crunch and extra flavor that makes this recipe memorable.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I like to switch up this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe depending on the season or my mood—sometimes adding a pinch of smoked paprika or swapping seasoned croutons for crushed crackers. Feel free to play around and make this dish truly yours.

  • Variation: Adding a handful of shredded cheddar cheese in the mix takes it to a cheesy comfort food level that my family absolutely loves.
  • Dietary Twist: For dairy-free, you can swap butter with olive oil and use gluten-free croutons without losing the crunch.
  • Seasonal Change: Fresh corn kernels work beautifully in summer—just lightly steam them instead of canned corn.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe

Step 1: Prep with Love

First, you want to preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your baking dish well—trust me, it makes cleanup easier and keeps the crunch on point. Then, thaw your frozen broccoli completely and drain off any extra moisture, which helps avoid a soggy bake later.

Step 2: Mix the Good Stuff

In a mixing bowl, whisk the beaten egg together with the cream-style corn, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. This wet mixture is the heart that binds the Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe. Next, stir in the drained broccoli so every bite tastes balanced and fresh.

Step 3: Croutons for the Win

In a small bowl, toss the seasoned croutons with melted butter to coat them evenly. Use about a cup of this buttery mixture inside your broccoli-corn bowl, saving some for the topping, which is the secret to that irresistible crunch when baked.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Transfer your combined mixture into the greased baking dish, level it out, and sprinkle the remaining croutons on top. Pop it in the oven for 30–35 minutes — you’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns golden brown and the insides bubble just slightly around the edges.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Skip Draining: I’ve learned that draining the broccoli well prevents the bake from becoming watery.
  • Butter-crouton Magic: Tossing croutons in melted butter before baking makes the topping extra flavorful and crisp.
  • Use Seasoned Croutons: They add built-in flavor that means less salt is needed.
  • Bake Fully for Crunch: Baking the full 30-35 minutes ensures the top is golden and crunchy, which is the best part!

How to Serve Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe

A white rectangular dish holds a baked casserole with two main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of green broccoli florets and light green celery pieces, and the top layer is covered in golden brown toasted bread cubes that are crispy and uneven in size. The dish sits on a white marbled surface next to a white and green striped cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Whenever I serve this dish, I like to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top — it adds that lovely pop of color and a fresh, mild flavor that brightens every bite. Sometimes a light drizzle of a tangy vinaigrette right before serving can balance the richness too.

Side Dishes

This Broccoli Corn Crunch shines alongside roasted chicken or glazed ham, but it’s just as perfect with simple grilled fish or even a juicy steak. I also enjoy serving it with mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or potlucks, I sometimes bake the Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe in individual ramekins for a pretty presentation. Another fun idea is to sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or fried shallots on top for an unexpected crunch and flavor twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After it cools, I cover leftovers tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, though the topping loses a bit of its crispness — a quick re-crisp in the oven brings it back to life nicely.

Freezing

I’ve found that the Broccoli Corn Crunch tastes good frozen too. Just freeze in an airtight container after baking. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven. The texture stays pretty solid if you’re careful not to overcook on reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I usually cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, removing the foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp the topping back up. This method keeps that satisfying contrast you love in the Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe.

FAQs

  1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen in this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe?

    Yes! If using fresh broccoli, chop it into small pieces and steam or blanch it briefly to soften. Drain well before mixing to avoid excess moisture that could make the dish soggy.

  2. What can I substitute for seasoned croutons?

    You can use crushed buttery crackers, toasted breadcrumbs, or even panko tossed with melted butter and your favorite seasonings. Just make sure they’re well-coated and crispy to keep the signature crunch.

  3. Is this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe suitable for vegetarians?

    Absolutely! This recipe contains no meat and is perfect for vegetarians who enjoy a creamy, crunchy side dish loaded with veggies. Just double-check your croutons are vegetarian-friendly.

  4. How can I make the topping extra crispy?

    Make sure to toss the croutons in plenty of melted butter before baking, and don’t cover the dish during cooking. You can even broil for the last couple of minutes for an extra golden finish—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

  5. Can I add cheese to the Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe?

    Definitely! Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella mixed into the broccoli and corn gives it a lovely melty layer that transforms the dish. I often sprinkle some on top before baking as well.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s just so easy and satisfying. Whether you’re a veggie lover or just looking to add a fun twist to your side dishes, it’s a winner every time. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do—consider this one your new go-to comfort side!

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Broccoli Corn Crunch Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 16 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Broccoli Corn Crunch is a savory and comforting casserole combining tender broccoli, sweet cream-style corn, and a crunchy seasoned crouton topping. This easy-to-make dish pairs well as a side for any dinner and offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped broccoli
  • 1 (8 oz) can cream style corn
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups seasoned croutons


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a shallow 1 1/2 quart baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Broccoli: Thaw the frozen chopped broccoli completely and drain any excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the beaten egg, cream style corn, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend all flavors.
  4. Prepare Crouton Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the seasoned croutons with the melted butter or margarine until the croutons are evenly coated.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Add the drained broccoli to the bowl with the corn mixture, then incorporate 1 cup of the crouton mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining croutons over the top as a crunchy topping.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes until the casserole is set and the topping is golden and crisp.
  8. Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.

Notes

  • Ensure broccoli is well drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
  • You can substitute seasoned croutons with breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for a similar crunch.
  • For a richer flavor, try using real butter instead of margarine.
  • This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free croutons or crackers as topping.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

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