Broccoli-Peanut Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with crunchy peanuts and cheese, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners or potlucks seeking comfort food with a nutty twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli in salted water until tender, then drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beaten egg, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup grated cheese, grated onion, and chopped peanuts.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup grated cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh steamed broccoli if you prefer a fresher taste. If you're looking to reduce calories, try using light mayonnaise. For a nut-free version, omit the peanuts and replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. This dish can also be made vegetarian by ensuring your cream of mushroom soup is meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Peanut Casserole makes a delightful main dish or a hearty side. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a comforting vegetarian option, serve it with Mushroom-Stuffed Potatoes. This casserole is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, providing a nutritious option that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will keep the crispy topping intact.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Peanut Casserole contains roughly 866 calories, with 9g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1914mg per serving (83% 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 steam it until tender before adding it to the casserole mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Make sure to chop the fresh broccoli into small pieces for even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of celery soup for a different flavor. Additionally, using a mix of cream cheese and vegetable broth can also work well for a rich taste.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).