Broccoli Cheese Bake
Broccoli Cheese Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, enhanced by the zesty kick of Ro-Tel tomatoes. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish appeals to cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except Parmesan cheese in a casserole dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and bake at 350° until brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture. You can substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli; just blanch it first. If you want a spicier kick, try adding jalapeños or using spicy cheese soup. To make this dish lighter, consider using low-fat cheese soup and reducing the amount of Parmesan cheese. This dish also pairs beautifully with Strawberry Cream Cheese Cookies for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Cheese Bake as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or roasted meats. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness of the cheese. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a side of quinoa or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can be enjoyed by all.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cheese Bake contains roughly 305 calories, with 13g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (107% of the Daily Value), and calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 30g 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! Just make sure to blanch it for a few minutes in boiling water before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain the bright green color and tender texture. Fresh broccoli will add a nice crunch to the dish.
How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the casserole at 350°F until it's brown and bubbly, which typically takes about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overcook. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil while it finishes baking.
Can I add different vegetables to the bake?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as cauliflower, bell peppers, or even corn for added flavor and texture. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are pre-cooked or blanched to ensure they cook through in the baking time.
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).