Emily Thompson'S Creamy Broccoli Casserole
Creamy broccoli casserole combines tender broccoli with rich cheese, creamy soup, and crunchy Ritz crackers, making it a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare broccoli by cooking until tender.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and combine with cream of celery or mushroom soup.
- Add minced onion, milk or cream, and grated cheese; mix well.
- Stir in the cooked broccoli and optional corn if desired.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter.
- Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more cheese or using a blend of cheeses. If you prefer a different flavor profile, substitute cream of celery soup with cream of chicken. You can also add a can of drained corn for extra sweetness and texture. Make sure to thoroughly cook the broccoli until tender before mixing it, as this ensures even cooking in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy broccoli casserole makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or serves as a hearty vegetarian main course. Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness. It also goes well with crusty bread, such as Herb Peel Away Bread, for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Emily Thompson'S Creamy Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 564 calories, with 9g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 887mg per serving (39% 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?
Absolutely! Using fresh broccoli will give your casserole a vibrant flavor and texture. Just make sure to cook the fresh broccoli until tender before adding it to the mixture. This step is crucial to ensure everything bakes evenly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). These options will help bind the casserole without altering the flavor significantly.
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).