Broccoli Or Spinach - Your Choice - Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring broccoli or spinach combined with artichokes, seasoned with tarragon, paprika, and pepper—perfect for a comforting, versatile side dish or main.
Ingredients
- 1 to 1.5 packages chopped broccoli or spinach, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 1 small jar marinated artichoke hearts
- 1 can Progresso artichoke hearts, drained, halved or quartered ⓘ
- 2 to 2.5 tubs soft cream cheese ⓘ
- 2 to 3.5 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 tablespoons milk ⓘ
- Grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix well the cream cheese, milk, softened butter, and the marinade from the jar of artichoke hearts.
- Place both sets of artichoke hearts in the bottom of an oven baking dish or casserole.
- Spread the cooked, drained broccoli or spinach over the artichokes.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Season with pepper, paprika, and 1 teaspoon of tarragon.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of soft cream cheese. You can substitute the broccoli with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a tangy taste, add a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. Remember to taste and adjust seasonings as desired, and feel free to incorporate herbs like thyme or oregano.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a delightful side dish for roasted chicken or a savory main for a vegetarian meal. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner. It also complements lighter dishes like grilled fish or can be served alongside Butterscotch Muffins for a unique brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated adequately.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Or Spinach - Your Choice - Casserole contains roughly 210 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as instructed, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a substitute for cream cheese. Both will add creaminess while reducing calories. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust seasonings accordingly.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, simply increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness before serving.
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).