Broccoli And Macaroni Casserole
A cheesy broccoli and macaroni casserole that's creamy, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining tender broccoli, pasta, and melted cheddar cheese for comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook frozen broccoli spears and macaroni according to package directions.
- Cut broccoli into bite-sized pieces and mix with cooked macaroni in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a saucepan, prepare the cream of mushroom soup as directed on cans, using milk.
- Add three-fourths of the grated cheddar cheese to the soup and heat until cheese is melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and macaroni mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and browned.
- Ensure the pan is large enough to prevent overflow as it bubbles during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce. If you’re short on time, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just steam it lightly before adding. For a twist, you could substitute the Cheddar with a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a more complex flavor. This dish also pairs well with a simple green salad.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli and macaroni casserole makes a hearty main dish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For an added crunch, serve it alongside Boiled-Fried Potatoes for a comforting combo. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 266 calories, with 14g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
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 until tender before mixing it with the cooked macaroni. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can make a homemade white sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, cream of chicken or celery soup can be used for a different flavor profile.
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).