Broccoli Casserole Ii
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole packed with water chestnuts, mushrooms, and green onions, topped with crispy Ritz crackers—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli according to the package directions; pour off excess water and set aside.
- In the top of a double boiler, melt the garlic cheese with the cream of mushroom soup while sautéing the chopped green onions and sliced celery in margarine.
- Combine the melted cheese mixture with the mushroom soup, then add the sliced mushrooms and sliced water chestnuts.
- Pour the cooked broccoli into a large greased casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese and vegetable mixture over the broccoli.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until the casserole is browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of milk or heavy cream to the cheese mixture. If you can't find garlic cheese, a combination of cream cheese and minced garlic works well. You can also substitute fresh broccoli for frozen, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This recipe can easily be made vegetarian by ensuring the cream of mushroom soup is meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted chicken for a complete meal. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider serving it alongside No Fuss Baked Noodles. Leftovers can also be a hearty side dish for lunch or dinner the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole Ii contains roughly 138 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (44% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it briefly until tender before adding it to the casserole. Fresh broccoli will offer a slightly different texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, check that the cream of mushroom soup and other canned ingredients are 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).