Fast And Easy Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole topped with crunchy Ritz crackers and butter, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli according to the package instructions.
- Drain the cooked broccoli thoroughly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, and mayonnaise.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Crush the Ritz crackers and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the crushed crackers.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken if preferred. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just blanch it for a few minutes before adding to the mixture. If you want to add some crunch, try mixing in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole makes a delightful side dish for any meal and pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It can also serve as a hearty vegetarian main course. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a warm bowl of Macaroni Salad With Basil Dressing. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast And Easy Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 745 calories, with 11g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the casserole gluten-free, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is also gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just chop it into small florets and blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before draining and adding to the mixture. This will help retain its vibrant color and crispness 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).