Broccoli Casserole(Yields 4 Servings)
A creamy broccoli casserole featuring tender florets, rich cheeses, and a savory sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering comforting flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp minced garlic ⓘ
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp salt ⓘ
- pinch ground nutmeg ⓘ
- 6 oz fresh broccoli florets ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped broccoli stems ⓘ
- 1/3 cup skim Ricotta cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a shallow 1-quart baking dish.
- Melt butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for about 4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually add evaporated milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add salt and a pinch of ground nutmeg; cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chopped broccoli florets and stems, Ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the broccoli mixture gently.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the evaporated milk. If you're short on time, frozen broccoli florets can be used instead of fresh; just thaw and drain them well before adding. To enhance flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cheese mixture. This broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like Pecan Cobbler for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole makes a delightful side dish for grilled chicken or roasted meats. To round out your meal, serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Consider pairing it with a light dessert like Peach Angel Pie to balance the meal's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broccoli casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals while covering to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole(Yields 4 Servings) contains roughly 1103 calories, with 25g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2563mg per serving (111% 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 broccoli casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to serve, bake from cold, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until it's heated through and bubbly.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux. This will allow you to enjoy the casserole without compromising on flavor or texture. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze the broccoli casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It’s a great way to have a quick meal on hand!
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).