Aunt Lisa'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with a crunchy bread crumb topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli; drain.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup, shredded Cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onion (if using), pepper, and beaten egg.
- Add cooked broccoli to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein. If you want more flavor, try adding garlic powder or a sprinkle of nutmeg. To save time, use pre-chopped frozen broccoli or fresh broccoli florets. This dish can easily be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Lisa's Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or is great as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice or quinoa. This dish is also suitable for vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile option for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the bread crumbs.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lisa'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 589 calories, with 15g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you want a healthier option or want to avoid canned soups, you can make a homemade version using a roux with flour and butter, combined with vegetable broth and sautéed mushrooms. This will give you control over the ingredients and flavor.
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).