Broccoli Casserole(A La Pat Mechun, Presbyterian Pastor)
A comforting broccoli casserole featuring a creamy white sauce, seasoned stuffing, and a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread cooked broccoli in a 1 1/2-quart oblong pan.
- Make a white sauce by melting butter, then stirring in flour, crushed chicken bouillon cubes, and milk until thickened.
- Pour the white sauce over the broccoli in the pan.
- Heat water and butter until melted, then pour over the herb stuffing mix and toss to coat.
- Add nuts and mix thoroughly.
- Spread the stuffing mixture over the broccoli and sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated cheese to the white sauce or mixing it into the stuffing. You can substitute vegetable broth for water and bouillon for a vegetarian version. If you have leftover cooked chicken, shredded pieces can be added for extra protein. Ensure the broccoli is not overcooked before baking to maintain its texture. This casserole is reminiscent of American recipes that blend vegetables with creamy sauces.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a delightful main dish, especially when paired with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. It also complements chicken recipes like Chicken Parmesan Pie beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole(A La Pat Mechun, Presbyterian Pastor) contains roughly 1584 calories, with 16g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 156g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. It also contributes 7g 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 if you prefer. Just steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks evenly in the oven. Fresh broccoli may have a crisper texture compared to frozen, which can enhance the dish.
What can I substitute for herb stuffing mix?
If you don't have herb stuffing mix, you can create your own blend using plain bread cubes mixed with dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. Alternatively, a mix of cooked rice or quinoa with seasonings can work as a gluten-free option.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it to ensure it heats through completely.
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).