Easy Cheese Broccoli Casserole
Creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole with crunchy cracker topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or holiday gatherings, featuring tender broccoli and rich cheese flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cooked broccoli in a baking dish.
- Melt Velveeta cheese and oleo together and pour over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the melted cheese mixture. You can substitute Velveeta with a combination of cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try using crushed cornflakes instead of Ritz cracker crumbs. To save time, use frozen broccoli instead of fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Cheese Broccoli Casserole makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or a centerpiece for a vegetarian meal. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or serve alongside roasted chicken. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a slice of hearty bread or a side of baked (or grilled) Vidalia onions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cheese Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 22 calories, with 2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 make sure to steam or blanch it first to soften it before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure even cooking and a tender texture in the final dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like cooked cauliflower, carrots, or even cooked rice for added texture and flavor. This casserole is quite versatile and can be adjusted to include your favorite veggies.
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).