Broccalie
A cheesy broccoli casserole with crispy bread topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining creamy, savory flavors with a crunchy finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, American cheese or nacho cheese soup, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Place cooked broccoli in a buttered dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli.
- Melt butter in a pan and brown the diced bread slices.
- Place the browned bread over the broccoli and cheese mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the cheese mixture. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. You can also use leftover roasted vegetables instead of fresh broccoli for added flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack to customize the dish to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is great as a main course and pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also works well as a side dish for a barbecue. To enhance your meal, consider serving it with a slice of warm cornbread or alongside 'Corn Spoon Pudding'.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, microwaving in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated and the top is crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccalie contains roughly 952 calories, with 12g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 804mg per serving (35% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before combining it with the cheese mixture. This will help prevent the dish from becoming watery during baking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I substitute for the American cheese?
If you don’t have American cheese, you can use shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or even a creamy cheese sauce. For a bit more flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan to the mix, which will also enhance the overall taste of the dish.
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).