Spread this 1 thick mixture over steamed broccoli florets into a baking dish for a veggie bake that hits the spot every time

For picky eaters, chop the broccoli smaller so it blends more into the creamy layer, or mix a little of the broccoli directly into the thick soup-cheese mixture before spreading it over the rest. If your family doesn’t love sharp cheddar, use mild cheddar or a Colby-Jack blend for a gentler flavor. To add protein, stir 1–1 1/2 cups of cooked, diced chicken or ham into the thick mixture before spreading it over the broccoli. For a slightly lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheddar, keeping in mind the casserole may be a bit less rich but still satisfying. If you don’t have buttery crackers, use crushed cornflakes or panko bread crumbs tossed with the melted butter for the topping. To make it more kid-friendly, skip the garlic and onion powder and just season lightly with salt and pepper, then offer hot sauce at the table for the adults. This casserole can be assembled a day ahead: steam the broccoli, spread it in the dish, mix and spread the thick topping over the florets, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the crumb topping just before baking, and increase the bake time by about 5–10 minutes if going straight from the fridge.