Broccoli Casserole With Almonds
Creamy and cheesy with a crunchy almond topping, this broccoli casserole is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. The rich flavors of mushroom soup, Cheez Whiz, and butter meld with tender broccoli and rice, creating a comforting dish that appeals to all ages and is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the cream of mushroom soup, butter, and Cheez Whiz together in a saucepan.
- Add the Minute rice and frozen broccoli to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle slivered almonds evenly over the top.
- Bake at 325°F for 35 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the soup mixture. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce for a healthier option. If you prefer, use quinoa instead of Minute rice for added protein and fiber. To enhance flavor, add garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside baked chicken parmesan. It also makes a great side dish for potlucks or holiday gatherings. Consider topping with additional slivered almonds or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover with a paper towel to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole With Almonds contains roughly 446 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli for this recipe. Just steam or blanch it briefly before adding it to the mixture to ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole. Fresh broccoli will add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, especially if you use a vegetarian version of cream of mushroom soup. You can also enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix for an extra boost of taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for busy days!
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).