Company Broccoli Casserole
A comforting broccoli casserole combining tender cooked broccoli, savory rice, creamy soup, and melted cheese, baked to perfection. This dish offers a rich, cheesy flavor with a hint of onion, making it an ideal side or main for family dinners and gatherings with a creamy, hearty appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked and drained broccoli, cooked rice, cream of celery soup, milk, grated onion, grated cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl; mix gently.
- Spoon the mixture into a prepared casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you prefer a bit of crunch, top the casserole with crushed crackers or fried onions before baking. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. Fresh broccoli can be used, just ensure it’s steamed and chopped before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast. For a hearty vegetarian option, complement it with garlic bread or a side of corn and olive spread. A slice of Bonnie's Coconut Pie makes for a delightful dessert afterward.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 276 calories, with 6g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 608mg 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 use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender, then chop and mix it into the casserole. Fresh broccoli will provide a slightly different texture but will still work well in this recipe.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the broccoli casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free rice and ensure your cream of celery soup is gluten-free as well. There are many brands available that offer gluten-free options, or you can make your own at home.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just remove the foil and add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
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).