Broccoli Spears Stuffed
Broccoli Spears Stuffed offers a creamy, cheesy filling combined with tender broccoli and a savory herb stuffing topping. Perfect as a comforting side dish or main for family dinners, it features a blend of cheese, mayonnaise, and seasoned broccoli, baked to a golden perfection that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli spears until tender and drain.
- In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, chopped onion, beaten egg, cream of chicken soup, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- In a separate pan, melt butter and mix in the herb stuffing.
- Spread the broccoli mixture in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the butter and stuffing mixture over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you prefer a different cheese, Monterey Jack or Gruyère can work well. Adding some garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme can enhance the flavor. Ensure the broccoli is not overcooked to maintain its texture. This dish is great for potlucks or as a side to accompany Southern Party Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served as a side at family gatherings or paired with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal. It complements well with rice or quinoa dishes, and a fresh salad can balance the richness. Consider serving it alongside Chicken Kelly I for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Broccoli Spears Stuffed can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, heating in short intervals to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Spears Stuffed contains roughly 689 calories, with 8g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 566mg per serving (25% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli mixture and stuffing topping a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well; just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe. This will help prevent excess moisture in the dish, ensuring a perfect bake.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or don't have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade roux with chicken broth and heavy cream. This will maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dietary preferences.
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).