Broccoli Puffs
Broccoli Puffs are a savory casserole featuring tender broccoli combined with a cheesy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy bread crumbs. This comforting dish offers creamy, cheesy flavors with a crunchy topping, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a satisfying side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli, drain, and place in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, stir together the mushroom soup and shredded cheese until well blended.
- Add the milk, salad dressing, and beaten egg to the soup mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the broccoli in the baking dish.
- Combine the bread crumbs and melted oleo, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the mushroom soup mixture. If you don't have sharp cheese, mild cheddar or mozzarella can work, but the flavor will be less intense. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. To add some spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish without overpowering it.
Serving Suggestions
These broccoli puffs make a delightful side dish or a light main course. Serve alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, pair with a warm bowl of soup or browse more American recipes that feature vegetables. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the bread crumbs crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Puffs contains roughly 349 calories, with 7g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 473mg per serving (21% 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. Make sure to steam or blanch it first to soften it slightly before adding it to the baking dish. This will ensure even cooking and a nice texture in the final dish.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for the mushroom soup?
Absolutely! Look for a vegetarian cream soup or make your own using vegetable broth, cream, and sautéed mushrooms. This will maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli puffs ahead of time. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking 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).