Cauliflower Or Broccoli Casserole
Creamy and cheesy, this cauliflower or broccoli casserole is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks, featuring tender vegetables in a rich, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine all ingredients: partially cooked and drained broccoli or cauliflower, chopped small onion, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, and Cheez Whiz in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour or until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option. If you're short on time, use fresh broccoli or cauliflower; just steam them slightly before mixing. Adding breadcrumbs on top before baking can give a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats or a hearty protein like Herb Roast Chicken. For added flair, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving or garnish with fresh herbs.
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) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower Or Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 794 calories, with 9g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 921mg per serving (40% 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 or cauliflower instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli or cauliflower. Just steam them until slightly tender before mixing. This will ensure they cook properly in the casserole and maintain a good texture.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version or make your own using cornstarch as a thickener. Always check that the Cheez Whiz and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using low-fat or reduced-fat versions of Cheez Whiz and cream of chicken soup. You could also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the nutrient content while keeping the flavor delicious.
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).