Cheese Broccoli Casserole
Creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole features tender chopped broccoli combined with velvety cheese and a crunchy cracker topping. Perfect for a comforting side dish or family dinner, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages and complements various main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped broccoli according to the package instructions, omitting any seasoning. Drain well.
- In a mixing bowl, stir the cooked broccoli with the Velveeta cheese and one stick of margarine until the cheese is melted and combined.
- Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a casserole dish.
- Crush the Ritz crackers and mix with the softened margarine.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked chicken or ham with the broccoli and cheese. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the Velveeta with a blend of low-fat cream cheese and shredded cheddar. You can also use whole wheat Ritz crackers for a nuttier taste. Make sure to crush the crackers finely for an even topping. This dish is a fantastic choice for potlucks or family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside baked potatoes or a side of rice. It also makes a great main dish for vegetarians, complemented by a side of roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier experience!
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 556 calories, with 10g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 601mg per serving (26% 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 definitely use fresh broccoli! Just chop it into small florets and steam or blanch it for a few minutes until tender before mixing it with the cheese. Fresh broccoli will add a bit more texture and flavor to the casserole.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crush some gluten-free cornflakes for the topping. Make sure to check the labels on the Velveeta cheese and margarine to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I make this casserole creamier?
To achieve a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup or sour cream to the broccoli and cheese mixture before baking. This will enhance the richness and create a delightful creaminess throughout the dish.
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).