Broccoli Casserole(6 To 8 Servings)
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted Cheez Whiz, crunchy cracker topping, and savory onion flavor, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in 4 tablespoons of butter until soft.
- Add flour and water; blend until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Blend in Cheez Whiz; mix well.
- Combine sauce and cooked broccoli; add well-beaten eggs and mix gently until blended.
- Turn the mixture into a well-greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with crumbled soda cracker crumbs; dot with remaining butter.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour instead of regular flour. You can also substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar for a richer flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked broccoli can be used to speed up the preparation process. Ensure to sauté the onions until they're translucent for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like J.P.'S Barbecue Sauce for a delicious contrast. This dish also makes an excellent potluck contribution or family gathering centerpiece, appealing to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as it may dry out the casserole.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole(6 To 8 Servings) contains roughly 465 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 32g fat.
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 yield a firmer texture and a brighter flavor. Just blanch the fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook evenly in the oven.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this Broccoli Casserole gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers for the topping. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
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).