Broccoli Elegante
Broccoli Elegante is a creamy, cheesy vegetable casserole featuring tender broccoli, red peppers, and pearl onions, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the vegetables as directed on the package and drain.
- Mix flour into the mayonnaise until smooth.
- Gradually blend in the milk.
- Stir in 1/3 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Saute bread crumbs in butter lightly until golden.
- Combine the cooked vegetables and mayonnaise mixture in a 1-quart casserole.
- Top with the toasted bread crumbs and the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you prefer a different cheese, try Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative. Ensure to sauté the bread crumbs slowly to achieve an even golden color. This dish can also be enhanced with spices like garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Elegante dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes for a balanced dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve with a side of quinoa or a hearty grain salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven helps retain the crunchy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Elegante contains roughly 770 calories, with 13g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 543mg per serving (24% 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 vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh broccoli, green beans, pearl onions, and red peppers. Just make sure to blanch the fresh vegetables briefly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook evenly.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers, panko, or even finely chopped nuts can serve as a great alternative. Just remember to adjust the quantity as needed to achieve the desired topping texture.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking 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).