Double Cheese Broccoli
Creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with a crispy bread crumb topping, perfect as a comforting side dish or family-friendly meal that combines rich flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine cooked and drained broccoli, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, grated sharp cheese, and beaten eggs in a bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Toss white bread cubes with melted margarine to make bread crumbs.
- Top the casserole with the bread crumbs.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of mayonnaise. You can also add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein, which pairs beautifully with this dish. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent a soggy casserole, and feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
This Double Cheese Broccoli casserole is a fantastic side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or roasted chicken, such as Honey Of A Chicken Breast. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It can also be a hearty main dish on its own. For a more balanced plate, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette salad.
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 (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven method will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Double Cheese Broccoli contains roughly 534 calories, with 10g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 983mg per serving (43% 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. Blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then drain and chop before adding it to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will give the dish a brighter flavor and texture, although the cooking time may vary slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the cream of chicken soup and using a vegetable-based cream soup or a homemade white sauce instead. Additionally, ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly to maintain the dish's vegetarian status.
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).