Deluxe Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with Cheddar cheese and crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend eggs, cream of mushroom soup, and mayonnaise together in a bowl.
- Stir in grated Cheddar cheese and thawed chopped broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you're low on mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. You can also customize the cheese by mixing in some mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. For added crunch, mix in some sautéed onions or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Deluxe Broccoli Casserole is perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables with cheddar cheese sauce. You can also offer a crusty bread to scoop up the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deluxe Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 284 calories, with 13g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
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 in place of frozen. Just make sure to steam or blanch it first to soften the texture, which helps it blend well into the casserole. This will maintain the vibrant color and flavor, making it a great alternative.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all vegetables are tender.
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).