Broccoli Puff
Broccoli Puff is a delightful and creamy casserole that combines tender broccoli with a rich mushroom soup and melted cheese. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it offers a comforting flavor that's perfect for family dinners or as a side dish. It's a great way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook frozen broccoli according to package directions; drain thoroughly.
- Place broccoli cuts in a 10 x 6 x 1 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Stir together mushroom soup and shredded cheese.
- Gradually add milk, mayonnaise, and beaten egg to soup mixture, stirring until well blended.
- Pour over broccoli in baking dish.
- Combine bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle evenly over soup mixture.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350° for 45 minutes until crumbs are lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh broccoli instead of frozen, and try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different taste. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace the mayonnaise. Ensure you drain the broccoli well to prevent excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Puff makes a fantastic side dish, pairing well with roasted chicken or grilled fish. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. You might also enjoy it with Yummy Potatoes for a comforting dinner that the whole family will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture may differ slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Puff contains roughly 483 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of calcium (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), and protein (15% 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, but you'll need to steam it until just tender before adding it to the baking dish. This helps maintain the right texture and flavor in the final dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it doesn't include meat. However, to make it vegan, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, like almond milk and vegan cheese.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Broccoli Puff ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
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).