Broccoli Blue Cheese Casserole
A creamy broccoli and blue cheese casserole with crunchy cracker topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine and blend with the flour, salt, and blue cheese until smooth.
- Add the milk all at once and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils and thickens.
- Stir in the cooked broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1-quart ovenproof dish.
- Top with crushed buttery crackers.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of cream cheese and sour cream. If blue cheese is not to your taste, try substituting it with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the overall flavor profile. If you're short on time, using fresh broccoli is a great option; just blanch it before adding.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Blue Cheese Casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled steaks. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread, such as Governor'S Mansion Rolls. It can also be complemented with a light white wine, enhancing the flavors in the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the texture of the crispy cracker topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Blue Cheese Casserole contains roughly 717 calories, with 16g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (63% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2653mg per serving (115% 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, fresh broccoli can be used in this recipe. Simply blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender, then drain and proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh broccoli will add a vibrant color and texture to the casserole.
What can I use instead of buttery crackers?
If you don't have buttery crackers on hand, you can substitute them with crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed tortilla chips for a different texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free crackers that will provide a similar crunch.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.
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).