Broccoli-Spinach Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender broccoli and spinach with creamy mushroom soup and melted American cheese, topped with seasoned croutons for a crunchy finish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen spinach and broccoli for half the recommended time on their packages. Drain well.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup and cubed American cheese in a saucepan. Cook until the cheese melts smoothly.
- Mix the cooked vegetables with the soup and cheese mixture. Pour into a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Mix the herbed seasoned croutons with the melted margarine. Sprinkle the crouton mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you don't have American cheese, cheddar or a blend of cheeses can be used as substitutes. For added flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or onion powder into the vegetable mix. This dish fits well within vegetarian recipes, making it a hearty option for meatless meals.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is great as a standalone dish but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost. It also serves well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Spinach Casserole contains roughly 774 calories, with 9g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% 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 and spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding to the casserole. This will help retain their color and texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as fresh vegetables may require less time to cook than frozen ones.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free croutons. Additionally, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free, or consider making a homemade version using cornstarch as a thickener. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free meal.
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).