Broccoli-N-Cheese
Creamy broccoli with melted cheese and crunchy cracker topping makes a comforting side dish suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the frozen broccoli for approximately 20 minutes.
- While the broccoli is steaming, melt the Velveeta cheese and half and half in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked broccoli.
- Mix in crushed Ritz cracker crumbs evenly.
- Add fresh ground pepper throughout to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more half and half or try substituting with heavy cream. If you prefer a sharper flavor, use a blend of cheddar cheese along with the Velveeta. You can also add sautéed onions or garlic for an extra depth of flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, crushed gluten-free crackers can replace the Ritz.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli-N-Cheese as a comforting side dish alongside grilled chicken or baked fish for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Grandma'S Oatmeal Cake for dessert, creating a well-rounded dining experience. You can also serve it with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-N-Cheese contains roughly 444 calories, with 15g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 552mg 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 broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Steam fresh broccoli florets for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring they remain vibrant and slightly crisp for a perfect texture in this dish.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a more natural cheese option, you can substitute Velveeta with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar. This will give you a similar creamy texture and delicious flavor. Just ensure you melt the cheese mixture well.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Broccoli-N-Cheese recipe is suitable for vegetarians! It contains no meat ingredients, making it a great choice for those following vegetarian diets. Just double-check the ingredients in the crackers to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
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).