Broccoli Hot Dish
A hearty broccoli hot dish featuring tender broccoli, crunchy water chestnuts, and crispy fried onions, baked to perfection—perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch the frozen broccoli until just tender, then drain.
- Layer the broccoli, sliced water chestnuts, and cream of celery soup in a casserole dish.
- Top with French fried onions.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C) without covering.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or a sprinkle of garlic powder before baking. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute fresh broccoli for frozen, adjusting the blanching time. You can also replace cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom for a different taste. This dish is perfect for potlucks, so try pairing it with other crowd-pleasers like Potluck Favorite Grits And Cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Hot Dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a balanced meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. Consider adding a side of crusty bread to complement the creamy texture of the dish. This recipe is a crowd favorite and is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, ensuring they remain creamy and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Hot Dish contains roughly 764 calories, with 17g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1838mg per serving (80% 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 until it's tender but still bright green, which will enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh broccoli typically cooks faster than frozen.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it primarily consists of vegetables and soup. However, ensure that the cream of celery soup you use is free from meat-based broths. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the dish's nutritional value.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary.
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).