Donna'S Broccoli Casserole
A cheesy broccoli casserole with crispy Chee-tos topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering creamy, savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli and drain well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, grated cheese, chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, beaten egg, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the crushed Chee-tos over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you prefer a different cheese, try using cheddar or Monterey Jack. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent a watery casserole. Pair it with a side like Bacon-Cracklin' Cornbread for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Vegetable Pot Pie for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the topping may lose its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Donna'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 665 calories, with 7g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is a good source of calcium (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1408mg per serving (61% 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, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam it until tender and chop it before mixing it into the casserole. This will give it a fresher taste, though remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a quick roux with butter, flour, and vegetable broth, adding sautéed mushrooms for flavor. Alternatively, using cream of chicken soup or even a creamy cheese sauce works well.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free crushed snacks instead of Chee-tos, and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the casserole without gluten concerns.
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).