Aunt Frances' Zesty Broccoli Casserole
A cheesy, zesty broccoli casserole with a hint of horseradish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions and drain.
- Combine cream of mushroom soup, shredded Cheddar cheese, beaten egg, milk, mayonnaise, and horseradish in a mixing bowl.
- Stir the mixture into the cooked broccoli.
- Spoon the combined mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle cracker crumbs on top.
- Bake in the oven until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham to the mixture. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute sour cream for the mayonnaise. You can also use fresh broccoli if you have it on hand—just steam it until tender before mixing. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This dish can easily be made ahead of time and baked right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Zesty Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with Corn Muffins With Jalapeno Jelly for a delightful meal. Serve it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings. Consider a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For individual servings, you can microwave portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they are heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Frances' Zesty Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 477 calories, with 7g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it as directed, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the foil and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam it until tender before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole, making it even more delicious.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or use a similar cream soup that is labeled vegetarian. There are also several brands that offer vegetarian cream soups in stores, ensuring that the dish remains meat-free.
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).