Baked Chopped Broccoli
A comforting baked broccoli casserole featuring crunchy stuffing topping, creamy mushroom soup, and melted Cheddar cheese. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it combines savory flavors and a crispy topping to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a buttered casserole dish, layer the chopped broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, Cheddar cheese, and the entire package of stuffing, topping with a little stuffing set aside for topping.
- Add 3 tablespoons of water and dot with butter on top.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove the cover in the last 10 minutes of baking to brown the topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the broccoli layer. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce. For a fun twist, try using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, to complement the cheddar. This casserole is a great way to use leftover veggies from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Chopped Broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted pork for a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to round out the meal. For a complete vegetarian dish, you can serve it with a side of quinoa or rice. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chopped Broccoli contains roughly 191 calories, with 9g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A.
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 layering it in the casserole to ensure it cooks properly. Fresh broccoli will add a nice crunch to the dish, enhancing the overall texture.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of celery or a homemade béchamel sauce as a substitute. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and vegetable broth can also work well to provide creaminess.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's going in the oven cold.
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).