Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole
A comforting creamy broccoli cheese casserole featuring tender broccoli, velvety cheese, and savory soups, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the broccoli and cut it into pieces.
- Cut the Velveeta cheese into small cubes.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, and Miracle Whip in a bowl.
- Add the cheese to the soup mixture and stir until well combined.
- Spread the steamed broccoli evenly in a baking pan.
- Pour the creamed mixture over the broccoli.
- Cover the pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 300°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the soup mixture. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with shredded cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using Greek yogurt in place of Miracle Whip. This dish can also be enhanced by adding cooked chicken or other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy broccoli cheese casserole pairs beautifully with Cowboy Corn Bread for a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad to balance the richness. For a complete dinner, you might also serve it with Linda Jackson'S Pretzel Salad as a refreshing side dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole contains roughly 121 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% 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 instead of frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender before adding it to the casserole. Fresh broccoli can offer a better texture and flavor compared to frozen, so it's a great choice if you have it on hand.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for the soups used?
For a vegetarian version, look for cream of mushroom and cream of celery soups that are labeled vegetarian. There are several brands available that use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, ensuring you keep the dish plant-based.
Can this casserole be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance! Assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if cold.
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).