Broccoli Buffet Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted Cheddar cheese and cottage cheese, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Partially cook the frozen chopped broccoli.
- Drain the broccoli and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine eggs, cottage cheese, salt, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the mixture and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the egg mixture. You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, using fresh broccoli instead of frozen is an option; just steam it briefly before adding. Enhance the dish by mixing in some herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Ranch Style Deviled Eggs for a delightful brunch spread, or as part of a vegetarian recipes collection. It also makes for a great potluck dish, easily serving a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen; just ensure it's tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Buffet Casserole contains roughly 484 calories, with 27g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1944mg per serving (85% 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! Just steam it lightly before adding to the mixture to ensure it's tender. This will give a fresher taste and texture to the casserole.
What can I serve with this casserole?
The Broccoli Buffet Casserole pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve it with a side of garlic bread or alongside Farmer Mc Muffins for a hearty brunch.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for a day. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).