Cheesy Broccoli Bake(A Christmas Tradition)
A comforting cheesy broccoli bake with a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crunchy cornflake crumbs, perfect as a holiday side or family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the frozen chopped broccoli.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, cook chopped onion in butter until tender, but not brown.
- Stir in flour.
- Add water or milk. Cook and stir until thick and bubbly.
- Blend in Cheez Whiz. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the cooked broccoli and beaten eggs.
- Transfer the mixture to a 1 1/2-quart round casserole dish.
- Top with cornflake crumbs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the water or milk with sour cream or cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter option, use low-fat cheese or a cheese substitute. You can also add seasonings like garlic powder or nutmeg to enhance flavor. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Broccoli Bake makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals and pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or brown rice. Consider offering a light vinaigrette on the side to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the Cheesy Broccoli Bake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Bake(A Christmas Tradition) contains roughly 653 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before draining and adding it to the recipe. This will help soften the broccoli and bring out its vibrant color, making the dish even more appealing.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Cheesy Broccoli Bake up to a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, but stop before baking. Cover the dish and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you're looking for a substitute for Cheez Whiz, you can use a combination of shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese for a homemade cheese sauce. Melt them together with a bit of milk until smooth to achieve a similar creamy consistency and flavor.
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).