Broccoli Company Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted Velveeta cheese, perfect as a comforting side dish or family-friendly main, combining tender broccoli, rice, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- Add thawed chopped broccoli, cooked rice, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and half of the Velveeta cheese cut into cubes. Stir until the cheese is melted.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Top with remaining sliced Velveeta cheese and continue baking until the cheese begins to melt.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or additional cream of mushroom soup. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute low-fat cheese or try using fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the dish's flavor. If you want to add some protein, cooked chicken or turkey would blend in well.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad or Grandmother'S Potato Salad, to balance out the richness. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it as a main dish or a hearty side for a family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Company Casserole contains roughly 554 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 944mg per serving (41% 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 or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture, making the dish even more delicious.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is meat-free and use a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free option. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).