Broccoli-Pea Casserole
A comforting broccoli and pea casserole with cheesy mushroom sauce, topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli according to package directions and drain.
- Arrange one package of cooked broccoli in a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover the broccoli with the drained peas.
- In a bowl, combine the mushroom soup, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, shredded Cheddar cheese, and beaten eggs to make the sauce.
- Pour half of the sauce over the broccoli and peas.
- Add the remaining cooked broccoli on top and pour the remaining sauce over it.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or onions before mixing the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also swap the Cheddar cheese for a different variety like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different taste. Ensure to drain the peas well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Pea Casserole makes a delightful vegetarian main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish and a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a comforting dessert, consider serving alongside Cheese Cake Bars to round out the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Pea Casserole contains roughly 261 calories, with 8g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1231mg per serving (54% 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, fresh broccoli can be used. Just steam it until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture, ensuring the dish maintains its quality.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked and chopped before layering in the casserole.
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).