Golden Broccoli
Golden Broccoli is a cheesy, flavorful side dish featuring tender broccoli topped with melted Cheddar cheese and a hint of lemon, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli in salted water as directed on package or until tender.
- Drain the broccoli.
- Place broccoli in a greased 9 x 12 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice and pepper, then cover with the cream of chicken soup.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and place under broiler for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the broccoli before baking. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or a different cream soup, such as cream of mushroom, for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can also work well in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Golden Broccoli as a delightful side dish to grilled chicken or roasted meats; it pairs beautifully with Chicken Breasts Casserole. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or over a bed of T~E~G'S Perfect Rice for a satisfying texture contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and cover it to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Broccoli contains roughly 84 calories, with 3g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1399mg per serving (61% 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, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Simply cut it into florets and steam it until tender, then follow the recipe as directed. Adjust cooking times as fresh broccoli may require a shorter cooking time compared to frozen.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make Golden Broccoli vegetarian, simply use a vegetable-based cream soup instead of cream of chicken soup. This will maintain the creamy texture while making the dish suitable for vegetarians.
What are some good toppings for this dish?
In addition to cheese, you can top the dish with breadcrumbs for added crunch or even a sprinkle of chopped herbs like parsley or chives for freshness. Nuts, such as slivered almonds, can also add a delightful texture.
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).