Fran'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole featuring tender broccoli coated in a rich cheese sauce made with Cheddar and cream cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and salt; cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth.
- Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add softened cream cheese and shredded Cheddar cheese; continue stirring until cheese is melted and sauce boils.
- Remove from heat.
- Cook frozen broccoli until crisp-tender; drain well.
- Combine cooked broccoli with cheese sauce.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Fran's Broccoli Casserole, consider adding garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen; just steam it lightly before combining with the sauce. If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or Monterey Jack can be excellent substitutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fran's Broccoli Casserole as a delightful side dish at family gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or baked fish for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad or some crusty bread can complement this dish nicely, making it a satisfying vegetarian option for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fran'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 380 calories, with 10g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1451mg per serving (63% 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 Fran's Broccoli Casserole the day before. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I serve this casserole with?
This casserole pairs well with protein-rich dishes like roasted chicken or meatloaf. For a vegetarian meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or a lentil dish. A light vinaigrette salad can also add a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Fran's Broccoli Casserole. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).