Broccoli With Pimiento Cheese Sauce
A comforting broccoli dish topped with a creamy pimiento cheese sauce, crunchy crackers, and pecans, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions, then arrange in a shallow buttered 1-quart casserole.
- Combine mushroom soup, margarine, lemon juice, shredded Cheddar cheese, and chopped pimientos in a bowl.
- Spoon the cheese mixture over the cooked broccoli in the casserole.
- Top with crushed cheese-flavored crackers and chopped pecans.
- Bake until heated through and toppings are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream. If you're out of pimientos, roasted red peppers can serve as a tasty substitute. To make this dish lighter, try using reduced-fat margarine and cheese. Pair with a salad or bread for a more complete meal. You can also explore other American recipes for variations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a side with grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Ritzy Broccoli Or Veggie Casserole for a comforting dinner. Consider adding some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness, or serve it alongside a light soup for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating for extra flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Pimiento Cheese Sauce contains roughly 303 calories, with 6g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% 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 before adding it to the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed, and be sure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its vibrant color.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. For the mushroom soup, you can use a homemade or store-bought vegan cream soup. This will keep the dish delicious while adhering to vegan dietary needs.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!
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).