Broccoli Cover-Up
A comforting broccoli casserole topped with melted cheese and creamy sauce, ideal for family dinners or potlucks, offering savory flavors and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange cooked and drained frozen broccoli in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix shredded cheese, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, onion salt, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
- Spread the sauce evenly over the broccoli in the baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also use a mix of different cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for extra flavor. If you're short on time, fresh broccoli can be used; just blanch it before baking. To enhance the taste, try adding some garlic powder or chopped green onions to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or baked fish. It can also complement recipes like Aunt Mae'S Chicken Casserole for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but this may affect the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cover-Up contains roughly 401 calories, with 3g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg 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 make sure to blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding it to the baking dish. This step helps to soften the broccoli and ensures it cooks evenly with the sauce.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version or make your own using gluten-free flour. Always check the labels on your other ingredients, like mayonnaise and cheese, to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).