Broccoli-Rice Seafood Casserole
A creamy seafood casserole featuring tender broccoli, rice, crab meat, and melted Cheez Whiz, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and a cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam broccoli; set aside and chop when cool.
- Saute onions, bell pepper, and seafood in margarine.
- Add Cheez Whiz; stir while adding cream of mushroom soup.
- Add chopped broccoli and cooked rice; stir well.
- Spread mixture into a baking pan and sprinkle bread crumbs over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream when mixing the soup and Cheez Whiz. If you don’t have crab meat, feel free to substitute with shrimp or another seafood of your choice, as in Macaroni Salad With Shrimp. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli while steaming, as it should retain some crunch in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful contrast, serve with a tangy dipping sauce on the side. You could also complement it with a light seafood dish like Sauteed Riverfront Catfish Cakes, adding variety to your seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but cover them to retain moisture and avoid drying out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Rice Seafood Casserole contains roughly 786 calories, with 20g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1452mg per serving (63% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor.
What other seafood can I use in this casserole?
You can easily substitute crab meat with shrimp, scallops, or even a blend of seafood. Just ensure that the seafood is cooked before mixing it into the casserole to ensure even cooking throughout.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold 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).