Festive Broccoli Casserole
A hearty and cheesy broccoli casserole perfect for festive occasions, combining tender broccoli, rice, and flavorful Cheez Whiz, topped with melted cheese for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, combine chopped celery, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and butter.
- Microwave for 3 minutes at High.
- Add chopped broccoli and microwave for 5 minutes at High, stirring once during cooking.
- Add cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and Cheez Whiz to the casserole.
- Microwave for 8 minutes at High.
- Garnish with Cheddar cheese.
- Microwave for an additional 1 minute at High or until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions, celery, and green pepper until they're tender before microwaving. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a richer taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice works perfectly in this dish. For a vegetarian option, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a delightful side dish for holiday meals and pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Billy'S Saturday Morning Pancakes for a unique brunch option. For a complete meal, add grilled chicken or a veggie platter to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the microwave, covering it with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Festive Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 1139 calories, with 20g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% 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 steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole, as fresh broccoli may require a bit more cooking time compared to frozen.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your rice is also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that can easily replace traditional ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you're ready to heat it up.
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).