Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish packed with creamy flavors and a satisfying texture. The combination of frozen broccoli, creamy soups, and instant rice creates a hearty meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. It's an excellent choice for families seeking a quick and delicious vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble broccoli on the bottom of the pan.
- Mix the remainder of the ingredients together.
- Pour the mixture over the top of the broccoli.
- Cubes of chicken or turkey may be added for a complete meal.
- Bake at 425° for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream instead of just cream. You can also substitute the instant rice with cooked quinoa for a healthier option. If you want to add more flavor, sauté some onions or garlic before mixing with other ingredients. This dish is versatile; try adding different vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or turkey. It also makes an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks. Consider serving with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cheese Casserole contains roughly 175 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 601mg per serving (26% 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 steam it lightly before adding it to the dish to ensure it cooks properly during baking. Fresh broccoli will provide a different texture and flavor, making it a delightful variation.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Broccoli Cheese Casserole gluten-free, simply ensure that the cream and celery soups you use are gluten-free options. Additionally, you can replace the instant rice with a gluten-free grain like brown rice or quinoa, which will also add more nutrients.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding cooked chicken or turkey is a great way to make this casserole a complete meal. You can also use cooked beans or lentils for a vegetarian option, increasing the protein content while keeping it satisfying.
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).