Broccoli Casserole With Ritz Crackers
A creamy broccoli casserole topped with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- Mix flour and water together until smooth.
- Add the flour mixture to the sauteed onion and cook until thickened.
- Stir in the Velveeta cheese until melted and well blended.
- Add cooked, drained chopped broccoli to the cheese mixture.
- Stir in beaten eggs until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with buttered Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic along with the onion. If you don't have Velveeta cheese, a blend of cream cheese and a sharp cheddar can work as a substitute. To make it lighter, you can use low-fat margarine or reduced-fat cheese. For a crunchier topping, mix in some crushed nuts with the Ritz cracker crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a great side dish for holiday meals or a comforting main dish for vegetarian recipes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Grandma Bessie'S Pineapple Cookies for dessert, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 325°F (163°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole With Ritz Crackers contains roughly 694 calories, with 9g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% 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, you can use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and chop before adding it to the cheese mixture. This will ensure it remains tender in the casserole.
Is there a gluten-free option for the Ritz crackers?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free crackers available in stores, or you could use crushed gluten-free corn chips as a topping. Just ensure the rest of your ingredients, like the flour, are also gluten-free.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking stage, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold ingredients.
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).