Company Broccoli
A comforting broccoli casserole topped with crispy fried onions and melted American cheese, perfect for family dinners and potlucks with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare broccoli as package directs, cooking only 4 minutes. Drain and place in a greased shallow 2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded American cheese over the broccoli.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and evaporated milk, then pour over the cheese and broccoli.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Top with French fried onion rings and bake an additional 8 to 10 minutes or until onions are crisp and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or a dash of nutmeg to the creamy mixture. If you’re short on time, you can substitute fresh broccoli with other frozen vegetables like green beans or cauliflower. Adjust the cheese type for a sharper flavor; cheddar also works well. For a lighter version, use low-fat soup and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or some Easy Yeast Biscuits for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the rich flavors. It also makes a great side for holiday gatherings, enhancing your table spread with its comforting appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Broccoli contains roughly 286 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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, fresh broccoli can be used, but you will need to blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before proceeding with the recipe. This ensures it cooks evenly in the baking dish. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a roux of butter and flour, then adding milk or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency. This will enhance the flavor and make the dish even more delicious.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can enhance it by adding more veggies, like bell peppers or carrots, to the mix. Just be sure to check that the soup is labeled vegetarian, as some brands may include meat-based ingredients.
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).