Broccoli, Tomato And Cheese Bake
A hearty baked broccoli casserole with tomatoes and cheese, featuring creamy cheese sauce and flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam or boil the broccoli until just undercooked, then drain.
- Arrange the drained broccoli into a buttered 14 x 8 1/2-inch glass casserole dish.
- Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the broccoli.
- Pour the stewed tomatoes and their juice over the broccoli and eggs.
- Top with the cheese sauce or cheese soup.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the broccoli before assembling the dish. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese sauce with a combination of cream cheese and milk for a different texture. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor profile as well. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat cheese options from American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli, Tomato And Cheese Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or whole grain bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish for added nutrition. It also makes a great vegetarian option for gatherings, complementing dishes like the Peach Cake Dessert for a balanced menu.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, making sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Tomato And Cheese Bake contains roughly 228 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the bake. Cooking time might be slightly reduced since frozen broccoli is often pre-steamed.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the Cheddar cheese soup or sauce you use is labeled gluten-free. You can also create a homemade cheese sauce using gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken it instead of traditional flour-based sauces.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Additionally, incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives can bring a Mediterranean twist to the dish, making it even more flavorful.
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).