Fancy Broccoli
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole topped with crispy fried onions, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering comforting flavors and a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the frozen broccoli, grated cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and evaporated milk in a casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, top with French fried onion rings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter cheese flavor, swap the cheddar for mozzarella. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen; just blanch it briefly before combining. To enhance the dish's flavor, sprinkle in some garlic powder or onion powder.
Serving Suggestions
This Fancy Broccoli dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to round out the dining experience. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or brown rice. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fancy Broccoli contains roughly 486 calories, with 16g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% 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! Just blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding it to the casserole dish. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with another creamy soup, such as cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. This will still provide a similar creamy texture while allowing you to customize the flavor.
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).