Carolyn'S Broccoli Casserole
Creamy broccoli casserole with crispy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, featuring tender broccoli in a savory, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chopped frozen broccoli for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Add salt, pepper, and Accent to taste.
- Mix in cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, and grated onion until well combined.
- Place the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with buttered Ritz crackers.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream in place of some mayonnaise. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen, just steam it lightly before mixing. To add some heat, try incorporating a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. You could also use crushed saltines instead of Ritz crackers for the topping.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also a great side dish for grilled chicken or fish. For a comforting family meal, consider serving alongside Susan'S Baked Corn for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, though the topping may not stay as crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolyn'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 220 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 464mg per serving (20% 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 instead of frozen. Just steam it lightly for a few minutes until tender before adding it to the mixture. This will help maintain a nice texture in your casserole.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat mayonnaise and a reduced-sodium cream of celery soup to cut down on calories and sodium. Additionally, adding more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can increase the nutritional value.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving to ensure it’s hot and fresh.
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).