Best Ever Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole that combines tender frozen broccoli with a rich blend of cottage cheese and American cheese, topped with Parmesan. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or potlucks, offering a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option with a golden baked crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs, thawed broccoli, flour, cottage cheese, margarine, and American cheese together until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for one hour or until the casserole is golden brown.
- The recipe can be doubled and baked in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- You may prepare the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake later.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy texture, ensure the cottage cheese is well-mixed with the other ingredients. If you don't have margarine, melted butter can be substituted for a richer flavor. You can also use a mix of cheeses like cheddar for a different taste. Thaw the broccoli completely and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole. For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or as a side for roasted meats. For a complete meal, serve alongside a hearty grain dish like quinoa or rice. It also complements well with Thanksgiving favorites such as roasted turkey or mashed potatoes, making it an excellent addition to holiday dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broccoli casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 323 calories, with 13g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 545mg per serving (24% 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 until tender before mixing it into the casserole. This will ensure it cooks evenly and retains its vibrant color. Fresh broccoli will add a delightful crunch to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer. Use plant-based margarine and vegan cheese alternatives to maintain the creamy texture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan broccoli casserole.
Can I freeze the broccoli casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.
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).