Baked Broccoli Casserole
A comforting baked broccoli casserole combining tender broccoli, creamy mushroom soup, crispy onion rings, melted Cheddar cheese, and crunchy bread cubes. This dish offers a savory, cheesy flavor profile with crispy and creamy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the thawed broccoli spears, cream of chicken soup, drained mushrooms, and fried onion rings in a baking dish.
- Repeat the layering process to build multiple layers.
- Top the casserole with grated Cheddar cheese and cubed, buttered bread pieces.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or your favorite herbs. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or a cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add more fried onion rings on top before baking. Ensure the broccoli is evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Easy Skillet Chicken for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad to balance the flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Baked Broccoli Casserole can be stored 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 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 415 calories, with 22g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (81% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 994mg per serving (43% 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 blanch it briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before using it in the casserole to ensure it cooks evenly. This will help maintain a vibrant color and the right texture in the dish.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses. For a sharper taste, try using Gruyère or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold going into the oven.
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).