Broccoli Jennifer
Creamy broccoli casserole with cheddar, mushrooms, and buttery cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering comforting flavors with a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Generously butter a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Combine the thawed and drained broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, grated Cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and beaten egg in a bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Turn the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers over the top of the casserole.
- Dot the cracker topping with small pieces of butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through, about 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the mixture. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option. To enhance flavor, add garlic powder or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the mix. This recipe is versatile and can also be adapted for vegetarian recipes by using vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Jennifer casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread. It also complements holiday meals beautifully, much like Day Before Mashed Potatoes. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat or serving it with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Jennifer contains roughly 577 calories, with 14g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% 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, but you'll need to blanch it first to soften it slightly. Steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until just tender, then drain and cool before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking, and it may require a few extra minutes in the oven if it's cold.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery cracker will work, or you could use crushed cornflakes for a different texture. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free crackers or even crushed nuts for a crunchy topping.
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).