Creamy Spam And Broccoli Casserole
A comforting creamy casserole combining Spam, broccoli, and cheese with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a saucepan, combine the cooked macaroni, thawed and drained broccoli, and cubed Spam.
- In a separate bowl, mix milk, cornstarch, and pepper until well combined.
- Bring the milk mixture to a boil over medium heat, then cook until thickened.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, broccoli, and Spam mixture, and stir to combine.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with melted margarine.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the Spam with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage for different flavors. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace Spam with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. Experiment with different cheese types like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. For a heartier dinner, serve alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. Consider pairing it with a refreshing Yogurt Milkshake for dessert, which adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Spam And Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 975 calories, with 12g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1133mg per serving (49% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If you're not a fan of broccoli, you can easily replace it with other vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any fresh vegetables to ensure they are tender.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free macaroni and check that your cornstarch and bread crumbs are certified gluten-free as well. This will allow you to enjoy the dish without gluten.
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).