Almond Broccoli Casserole
A crunchy, cheesy broccoli casserole with toasted almonds and a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim off leaves of broccoli and remove tough ends of lower stalks.
- Wash broccoli thoroughly and cut into spears.
- Cook in a small amount of boiling water for 8 minutes.
- Drain the broccoli thoroughly.
- Preheat oven if baking (optional, not specified).
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, mayonnaise, grated onion, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg whites.
- Add the cooked broccoli and toss gently to coat.
- Spread the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle toasted slivered almonds on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can substitute the slivered almonds with walnuts or pecans if desired. If you want to enhance the flavor, add garlic powder or fresh garlic to the mix. Make sure to drain the broccoli well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted fish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, such as Strawberry Rhubarb Pecan Salad, for a well-rounded meal. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings and can be made ahead for convenience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 514 calories, with 22g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value) and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 537mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. Frozen broccoli tends to have more moisture, so it's crucial to remove excess water to maintain the casserole's texture.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used in place of mayonnaise. Both will provide creaminess while adding a tangy flavor to the casserole. Just keep in mind that the consistency may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this casserole vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative, and replace the egg whites with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).