Broccoli-Cashew Casserole
A creamy broccoli and cashew casserole with Swiss and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for a hearty vegetarian meal or side dish with nutty, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash fresh broccoli carefully, cut off the thick stems, quarter the florets, and cut tender stems into bite-sized pieces. Steam lightly for 3 minutes or thaw frozen broccoli and drain well.
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in whole wheat flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Add cubed Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks, then stir into the cheese sauce.
- Add the drained broccoli and cashews to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Season with onion powder and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, sprinkle with poppy seed, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream along with the milk. If you don’t have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella can be good substitutes. To add more flavor, consider seasoning the sauce with garlic powder or nutmeg. For added crunch, you could top the casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Cashew Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted chicken or a protein of your choice. It can also be a delightful side dish for holiday gatherings, complementing items like the Overnight Souffle.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cashew Casserole contains roughly 1546 calories, with 36g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (153% of the Daily Value), iron (98% of the Daily Value), and calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. It also contributes 43g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli will add a vibrant texture and flavor. Just make sure to steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole, as outlined in the instructions.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese alternatives. Additionally, you can substitute the egg yolks with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture for binding.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend in place of whole wheat flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially cheeses and seasonings, are also certified gluten-free.
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).