Fresh Broccoli Casserole
A comforting broccoli casserole featuring tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy saltine topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook broccoli until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and blend in flour.
- Add milk gradually, cooking and stirring until thickened.
- Add grated mozzarella cheese and stir until melted.
- Beat eggs lightly in a separate bowl.
- Add some of the cream sauce to the eggs, blend, then add back to the sauce.
- Add thyme, salt, and white pepper to the sauce.
- Fold in cooked broccoli and pour into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with saltine crumbs.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the mozzarella with cheddar or a blend of cheeses. If you're short on time, use pre-packaged broccoli florets. Ensure the broccoli is not overcooked before adding it to the casserole for the best texture. If you like crunch, try adding some crushed garlic croutons on top instead of saltine crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. Pair it with a crisp salad like Rosie'S Caesar Salad or serve it alongside Hot Onion Appetizers for a well-rounded meal. It's also great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwave rewarming is possible, but may result in a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 516 calories, with 18g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (92% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute. Just ensure it is thawed and drained well before incorporating it into the casserole. This will help maintain the right consistency and prevent excess moisture in the dish.
What can I use instead of saltine crumbs?
If you prefer a different topping, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can work well as alternatives to saltine crumbs. Both options provide a nice crunch and can be seasoned with a bit of garlic powder or herbs to enhance the flavor even further.
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).