Broccoli Bleu Cheese Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with blue cheese and crunchy cracker topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with bold flavors and crispy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli and drain well.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in a saucepan and blend it with flour, salt, cream cheese, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Add milk all at once and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the cooked broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Top with finely crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, increase the amount of Bleu cheese. You can also substitute fresh broccoli for frozen, just ensure it's blanched before adding. To enhance the dish, try adding sautéed onions or garlic for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also serves as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a simple baked chicken. For a cozy winter meal, consider serving it with a warm bread roll or alongside Aunt Atha'S Fresh Apple Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Broccoli Bleu Cheese Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Bleu Cheese Casserole contains roughly 575 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1142mg per serving (50% 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 definitely use fresh broccoli! Just make sure to blanch it in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes before adding it to the casserole mixture to ensure it's tender and blends well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for Bleu cheese?
If you're not a fan of Bleu cheese, you can substitute it with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, use a sharp cheddar for a milder taste that still complements the dish well.
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).