Bajou Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with cheesy flavor, tender rice, and savory vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice and chopped broccoli according to package directions.
- Saute onions and celery in a small amount of melted butter or oleo.
- Combine sauteed vegetables, cooked rice, chopped broccoli, and remaining butter in a large bowl.
- Melt Cheez Whiz in cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup water in a saucepan.
- Stir the melted Cheez Whiz mixture into the broccoli and rice mixture, blending well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the Cheez Whiz mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the Cheez Whiz with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack. You can also swap the frozen broccoli for fresh if you have it on hand; just steam it first. For a bit of spice, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Bajou Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or roasted beef. For a vegetarian option, consider adding cooked chickpeas for extra protein. It’s a comforting dish that fits well into family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help retain the dish's original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bajou Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 415 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% 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 it lightly before adding it to the mixture. This will ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole and maintains its color and texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade version by mixing equal parts of cream and broth with sautéed mushrooms, or substitute with any cream soup you have on hand, like cream of celery or chicken for added 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).