Baked Broccoli And Cheese
Creamy baked broccoli with melted cheddar cheese, topped with breadcrumbs and butter, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli and drain well.
- Mix eggs, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, dried minced onion, and three-quarters of the grated Cheddar cheese.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Lightly sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Dot with 3 or 4 pieces of butter.
- Refrigerate overnight, covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of mayonnaise. You can also swap out the Cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper will enhance the dish. Ensure the broccoli is thoroughly drained to avoid a watery casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Broccoli and Cheese makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or a vegetarian main course. Pair it with a fresh salad, such as Petit Pea Salad, for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, serve it alongside crusty bread or rice, making it a hearty option for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Broccoli And Cheese contains roughly 570 calories, with 14g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% 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 provide a fresher flavor and a slightly different texture in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate overnight. Just remember to bake it uncovered as directed to achieve that golden top.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are chopped small and cooked slightly to avoid excess moisture.
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).