Creamy Broccoli Casserole
Creamy Broccoli Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish featuring tender broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. The blend of cream cheese, shrimp soup, and American cheese creates a luscious flavor perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Warm, hearty, and satisfying, it appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cooked broccoli in a 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Melt the cream cheese, cream of shrimp soup, and margarine in the microwave.
- Stir to blend the melted mixture thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture over the cooked broccoli in the dish.
- Top with slices of American cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the melted mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and use olive oil instead of margarine. For added flavor, mix in some garlic powder or onion flakes. This casserole can easily be adapted for seafood recipes by incorporating cooked shrimp or crab meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy broccoli casserole as a main dish or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or pairing it with the Tuna Pasta Bake for a delightful variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 954 calories, with 8g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1261mg per serving (55% 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 instead of frozen. Simply steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole. This can enhance the flavor and texture, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by using a vegetable-based cream soup instead of cream of shrimp soup. Additionally, you can increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance. Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).