Easy Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole that's perfect for family dinners and potlucks. Featuring tender broccoli combined with velvety cheese and crunchy cracker topping, it's a comforting dish that appeals to all ages and pairs well with various mains for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook broccoli according to package instructions and drain.
- Add shredded Velveeta cheese and 2 tablespoons of margarine to the cooked broccoli.
- Stir until the cheese and margarine are melted and well incorporated.
- Add the remaining margarine and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Top with crushed butter crackers.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until cracker topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mixing in the cheese. If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute reduced-fat cheese or use olive oil instead of margarine. Fresh broccoli can also be used in place of frozen; just steam it briefly before mixing. Don't forget to experiment with spices for added flavor!
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Broccoli Casserole makes a great side dish for any meal, particularly paired with grilled chicken or fish. Consider serving it alongside Sunday Glazed Carrots for a colorful plate. For a vegetarian option, serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 380 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% 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 absolutely use fresh broccoli! Just make sure to steam it until tender before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure that it cooks evenly in the casserole and retains its vibrant color.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Velveeta, you can try using a block of cream cheese or a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge.
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).