Broccoli Squares
Broccoli Squares are a savory, cheesy casserole featuring tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a flavorful cornbread base. This dish offers a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and cheesy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks that enjoy hearty, vegetable-forward comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli according to package directions and drain.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, melted butter, eggs, and chopped onion.
- Add the cornbread mix to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the drained broccoli, chopped green chilies, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you want to add a touch of heat, try using spicy green chilies. You can also add in some cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to maintain the texture of the broccoli. This dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
Serving Suggestions
These Broccoli Squares make a fantastic side dish for brunch or dinner. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or can be served alongside grilled meats. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with Baked Mashed Sweet Potatoes With Marshmallows. They are also great as a snack or appetizer, cut into smaller squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Squares contains roughly 574 calories, with 14g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 748mg per serving (33% 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, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam it until tender, chop it, and then add it to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will give a slightly different texture but will work beautifully in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the cornbread mix with a gluten-free cornbread mix or use a homemade gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the cheese and green chilies, are certified gluten-free.
What can I serve with Broccoli Squares?
Broccoli Squares pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside a light tomato salad or grilled chicken. They also complement breakfast items, making them a great addition to a brunch spread with Cheesy Baked Eggs or other vegetarian recipes.
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).