Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole that combines tender steamed broccoli with a rich mushroom and mayonnaise sauce, topped with crunchy buttery crackers. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or potlucks, offering a savory blend of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the chopped broccoli and drain well.
- Place half of the steamed broccoli into a casserole dish.
- In a bowl, beat the egg until light, then add the undiluted cream of mushroom soup and mayonnaise; mix well.
- Pour half of this mixture over the broccoli in the casserole dish, and sprinkle with half of the grated Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining broccoli, mushroom mixture, and cheese.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave.
- Combine the melted butter with the crumbled saltine crackers and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add cooked chicken or quinoa for extra protein. If you prefer a different vegetable, try using cauliflower or spinach instead of broccoli. To save time, use frozen broccoli instead of fresh, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy broccoli casserole is a great side dish, pairing well with grilled chicken or a simple salad for a complete meal. For a more filling option, serve it alongside your favorite protein like meatloaf or baked fish. It also makes a fantastic potluck dish that everyone will enjoy, similar to Buffet Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 1284 calories, with 22g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 911mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is delicious, you could substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and texture, but they will all work well in this casserole.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a vegetarian-friendly dish, perfect for those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the cream of mushroom soup you use is free from meat products, and you're all set for a delicious meat-free meal.
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).