Easy Broccoli And Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole combining tender California blend vegetables with rich cheese and crispy crackers, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water and cook the California blend broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots for 20 minutes. Drain and place in a casserole dish.
- Add the Cheese Whiz and the undiluted cream of celery soup to the vegetables and mix well.
- Crumble Ritz crackers over the top and bake until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey to the mix for a heartier dish. If you don't have Cheese Whiz, you can substitute with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a homemade cheese sauce. You can also experiment with different types of frozen vegetables if you prefer something other than California blend.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or a centerpiece for a vegetarian meal. Serve alongside a fresh salad or pairs beautifully with Apple Puff Salad for a colorful meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, but the oven keeps the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Broccoli And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 1038 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1172mg per serving (51% 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 vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. Just be sure to blanch them for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole, as they will need to be slightly tender before baking.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or even cream of chicken soup for different flavor profiles. Just ensure the soup is undiluted as that helps maintain the desired consistency in the casserole.
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).