Debi'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with cheesy and crispy cracker topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli until just thawed; drain.
- Mix all ingredients together except crackers and stir.
- Top with finely chopped, toasted crackers, enough to completely cover top.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes in a 2 to 2 1/2-quart glass casserole dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise or a yogurt-based dressing. You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor profile. Make sure to drain the broccoli well to avoid a watery casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or baked fish for a delicious meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread. For a vegetarian option, serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice. This dish also works well as a comforting main course for a light lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debi'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 630 calories, with 16g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until just tender before chopping. This will help maintain the texture of the casserole. Adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary, as fresh broccoli may require less time than frozen.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, and substitute the toasted crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will help maintain the crunchy topping without compromising the dish's integrity.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
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).