Broccoli Rice Casserole("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.")
A creamy broccoli rice casserole blending tender vegetables, cheesy goodness, and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or potlucks requiring comfort food with a veggie boost.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and celery in oil until tender.
- Add frozen broccoli and cover. Steam over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Add cream of chicken soup, milk, Cheez Whiz, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onion and celery. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen; just steam it lightly before adding to the dish. For a kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Rice Casserole as a comforting main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or meatloaf. It pairs beautifully with My Mother'S Fried Chicken for a hearty family meal. For a complete dinner, consider a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Rice Casserole("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.") contains roughly 328 calories, with 8g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), and protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 make this casserole 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. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven, and then bake as instructed.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Cheez Whiz?
Yes, feel free to substitute Cheez Whiz with shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the casserole. Adding a mix of cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily create a vegetarian version by substituting the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup or a homemade vegetable cream sauce. Ensure that your Cheez Whiz or cheese is vegetarian-friendly to keep the dish meat-free.
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).