Bayou Broccoli(Microwave)
Bayou Broccoli is a creamy, cheesy rice casserole with broccoli and onions, perfect for a comforting family meal or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter in a 3-quart casserole in the microwave for 1 1/2 minutes.
- Stir in chopped onion and chopped celery.
- Heat for 4 to 6 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Combine processed American cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and water in a small bowl.
- Blend well until smooth.
- Heat the cheese mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Stir the cheese mixture into the onion and celery mixture.
- Add cooked rice and thawed, drained broccoli; stir to combine.
- Heat the mixture for 6 to 9 minutes, stirring once during cooking.
- Sprinkle with paprika, cover, and let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute the processed American cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. If you're looking to add more flavor, consider including garlic powder or a splash of lemon juice. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just steam it before adding to the mixture. This dish works well as a side for grilled meats or pairs beautifully with Sherbet Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bayou Broccoli hot, garnished with additional paprika for color. This dish is great as a main course or as a hearty side. It pairs wonderfully with a simple protein, such as baked chicken or fish, and a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Nantucket Blueberry Gingerbread for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. You can also add a splash of water or milk when reheating to keep the dish moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bayou Broccoli(Microwave) contains roughly 664 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg per serving (26% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just follow the instructions up to the final heating step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave and enjoy.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can use a homemade mushroom sauce or a can of vegetarian cream of mushroom soup. This way, you maintain the creamy texture without compromising on the vegetarian aspect of the dish.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the broccoli?
Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also elevate the flavor profile, making it more vibrant and aromatic.
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).