Did you know a single serving of broccoli cheese casserole has 515 IU of Vitamin A and 48.7 mg of Vitamin C? This dish is not just a creamy comfort food. It’s also full of nutrients your body needs. In just 35 minutes, you can make a delicious dish for 12 people, great for family gatherings or special events.
This broccoli cheese casserole recipe mixes buttery crackers, fresh broccoli, and rich Velveeta cheese. It’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether you need a side for Thanksgiving turkey or a main dish for the family, this recipe is perfect. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a must-try.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Preparation time: 15 minutes, total time: 35 minutes.
- This recipe serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings.
- You can prepare the casserole a day in advance for a hassle-free cooking experience.
- Great pairing options include Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham.
- Each serving contains 277 calories and a rich blend of nutrients.
Introduction to Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Broccoli cheese casserole is a favorite in many American homes. It’s creamy and full of flavor, perfect for when you want comfort food. This dish is great for adding veggies to your meals and is quick and satisfying for the whole family.
Imagine tender broccoli in a rich cheese sauce, turning simple ingredients into a cozy meal. Making it is easy, needing just 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need milk, cheese, butter, onions, and more to make a comforting dish for your family.
Broccoli cheese casserole is great as a side or main dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser. For a fun twist, try the classic green bean casserole. Sharing this meal with your loved ones will make every bite special.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
This broccoli cheese casserole is perfect for quick, easy meals. It combines tender broccoli with melted cheese for a comforting dish. You can make it in under an hour, great for family dinners or big gatherings.
You can make this delicious broccoli casserole your own. Add different cheeses, herbs, or dips to suit your taste. Fresh broccoli adds flavor, but frozen works too. Use about 4 cups of fresh broccoli or three 10oz packs of frozen.
This dish is quick to prepare. Cook broccoli stems for 3 minutes, then add florets for 3 to 4 minutes. Mix it all, pour into a dish, and bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes. It’s a hearty meal that also makes great leftovers, lasting 2 to 3 days in the fridge or up to 3 months frozen.
Try this broccoli cheese casserole recipe for your next meal. Its mix of textures and flavors will be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients for the Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Creating the best broccoli cheese casserole begins with quality ingredients. It’s important to choose the right parts to make it delicious. Using fresh ingredients will make your dish taste better and feel creamier. Here’s what you’ll need.
Main Ingredients Needed
- 3 (10 ounce) packages frozen broccoli florets
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- Salt, pepper, and paprika for seasoning
Optional Add-ins and Variations
Want to make your cheesy broccoli casserole special? Add your own touches. These extras can make your dish stand out.
- Different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a flavor twist
- Sour cream for added creaminess
- Chicken or ham to create a heartier meal
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Making a homemade broccoli cheese casserole is easy and rewarding. It’s perfect for any gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. Follow these steps to make a delicious casserole every time.
Preparation and Assembly
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and butter it. Mix cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, a beaten egg, and chopped onion in a bowl.
In another bowl, combine frozen broccoli with the soup mixture. Fold in the cheese gently. This makes the creamy base of your casserole. Put it in the buttered dish and add salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.
Baking the Casserole to Perfection
Put the casserole in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour. Watch for the top to brown and the cheese to melt.
Timing may vary with your oven. Let it cool a bit before serving. This easy broccoli casserole is great for family meals or potlucks.
| Nutritional Information per Serving | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 394 |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 13g |
| Total Fat | 27g |
| Saturated Fat | 17g |
| Cholesterol | 79mg |
| Sodium | 494mg |
| Potassium | 544mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 1770 IU |
| Vitamin C | 126.9mg |
| Calcium | 330mg |
| Iron | 1.5mg |
Cooking Tips for a Delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Making a healthy broccoli cheese casserole is easy and fun. Think about the broccoli type and cheese choice. Here are some tips to make your casserole taste great and feel good.
Using Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli
Choosing between fresh or frozen broccoli is a common question. Fresh broccoli looks and tastes better, perfect for showing off. But, frozen broccoli is quick and easy, with 90% of homes having it.
If you pick frozen, thaw and drain it well. This stops too much water from ruining your dish.
Choosing the Right Cheese
The cheese you pick is key for a tasty broccoli cheese casserole. Sharp cheddar is a top pick for its bold flavor. Mixing in Monterey Jack or Gruyere adds more taste.
Some recipes suggest using up to 2 cups of shredded cheese. This makes the casserole creamy and cheesy. Don’t forget to add spices like smoked paprika for extra flavor.
| Aspect | Fresh Broccoli | Frozen Broccoli |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Crunchy | Slightly softer |
| Preparation Time | Longer (washing, chopping) | Shorter (no washing, minimal prep) |
| Flavor Quality | Fresh taste | Good flavor, convenient |
| Storage in Households | Less common | 90% keep on hand |
Healthy Broccoli Cheese Casserole Variations
Looking for a healthier broccoli cheese casserole? There are tasty tweaks to try. These changes keep the flavor rich but add more nutrients. They make the dish both healthy and delicious.
Making It Lighter Without Sacrificing Flavor
Begin with roasted broccoli for a richer taste than steamed. Quinoa is a great swap for pasta or rice, adding nutrition. For a lighter casserole, try these:
- Greek yogurt or reduced-fat mayonnaise for creaminess without the fat.
- Whole wheat breadcrumbs for more fiber and texture.
- Add carrots or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
These tweaks make your casserole not only delicious but also visually appealing. Each serving has about 229 calories, making it a guilt-free choice for any meal.
| Ingredient | Traditional Version | Healthier Variation |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli (16 ounces) | Baked | Roasted |
| Cheese (8 ounces) | Full-fat cheddar | Reduced-fat cheddar |
| Base | White rice | Quinoa |
| Binding Agent | Full-fat mayonnaise | Greek yogurt |
With these tweaks, you can enjoy a comforting, nutritious meal. Let these flavors become a staple in your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Your cheesy broccoli casserole is perfect for any time. It’s great as a side for chicken or pork chops. It’s also a tasty vegetarian option with grilled veggies or a fresh salad.
Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra taste. It looks good and tastes even better. Kids and adults will love it, turning veggie haters into fans.
- Pair it with garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
- Consider serving it with rice or egg noodles for larger gatherings.
- For a light meal, accompany it with steamed vegetables or a garden salad.
At family gatherings, serve it as part of a buffet. It makes your event special. Letting it rest a bit after baking makes it even better.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe: Nutrition Facts
Understanding the nutritional profile of a healthy broccoli cheese casserole is key. It has about 281 calories per serving. This makes it a filling choice without overloading your daily calorie needs.
Here’s a detailed look at the broccoli cheese casserole nutrition:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 281 kcal | 16% |
| Total Fat | 23g | 29% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | |
| Cholesterol | 66mg | 22% |
| Sodium | 547mg | 24% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 9% |
| Sugar | 2g | |
| Protein | 11g | 20% |
| Calcium | 245mg | 24% |
| Iron | 1mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 384mg | 8% |
This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. It has a lot of fat, mainly from cheese and cream. But it also has protein, calcium, and potassium, which are good for you. Just remember, it has a bit of sodium, especially if you use processed ingredients.
Conclusion
This easy broccoli cheese casserole recipe is a great addition to your meals. It brings comfort and joy to your dinner table. You can make the best broccoli cheese casserole that you and your guests will love.
It’s perfect as a side or main dish. Its creamy texture and tasty flavor will make it a favorite. You can also make it ahead of time for busy days or special events.
It can be made up to three days in advance or even frozen for later. You can also add your own twist by using water chestnuts or different toppings. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cream cheese or check out this vegan cheese ball recipe.
This broccoli cheese casserole is a hit at home. It’s full of flavor and can be enjoyed at any time. So, make sure to try it out for your next family dinner or gathering.
F.A.Q
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli is a great choice for a better texture. Just steam it until it’s tender before adding it to the casserole.
What type of cheese works best for broccoli cheese casserole?
Sharp cheddar cheese is perfect for flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or pepper jack for extra taste.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make it healthier, use Greek yogurt or reduced-fat mayonnaise. Try whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Adding extra veggies like carrots or zucchini is also a good idea.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a bit more time to the baking if it’s cold.
What should I serve with broccoli cheese casserole?
It goes well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a vegetarian main dish. A fresh garden salad or garlic bread is a great side dish.
Is this broccoli cheese casserole a good option for potlucks?
Yes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for potlucks.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
