Broccoli-Onion Deluxe
Broccoli-Onion Deluxe is a comforting casserole combining tender broccoli and sweet onions in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crunchy Parmesan bread crumbs. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a rich, savory flavor with a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions. Drain.
- Cook onions in boiling salted water until tender. Drain if using frozen onions.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add milk all at once and cook, stirring, until thick and bubbly.
- Reduce heat and blend in cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in cooked broccoli and onions.
- Place the mixture in a 1 1/2-quart casserole and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Melt remaining butter and toss with bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this dish, consider adding garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce. If you don't have cream cheese, sour cream can be a good substitute. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure the broccoli is not overcooked, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetarian recipes into your meal plan.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a side for roasted chicken or grilled fish. It pairs beautifully with Asparagus Almond Casserole for a delightful vegetable spread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Onion Deluxe contains roughly 827 calories, with 22g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1450mg per serving (63% 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 blanch it briefly in boiling water until bright green and tender before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain the vibrant color and crisp texture.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. Make sure the bread crumbs are also vegan to keep the dish compliant.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add the bread crumb topping and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).