Golden Crumb Broccoli
Golden Crumb Broccoli is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring tender broccoli topped with a crunchy cheese cracker crust. Rich in flavor with hints of mushroom, mayonnaise, and pimiento, it makes a comforting side perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful combination of textures and savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up the broccoli to make about 6 cups.
- In a saucepan, cook the broccoli, covered, in a small amount of boiling salted water for 15 minutes; drain well.
- Turn the cooked broccoli into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, shredded sharp American cheese, chopped pimiento, and lemon juice together.
- Pour the mixture over the broccoli in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the crushed round cheese crackers evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, instead of just sharp American. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly after cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy. This recipe can also be adapted to include other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Golden Crumb Broccoli makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. It pairs beautifully with Lemon-Buttered Broccoli(Microwave) for a veggie platter. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also a great dish for potlucks and family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Crumb Broccoli contains roughly 160 calories, with 4g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe. Fresh broccoli provides a better texture, but frozen is a convenient alternative if you're short on time.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Golden Crumb Broccoli gluten-free, substitute the crushed round cheese crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that the cream of mushroom soup is also labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli and the sauce the day before and assemble it in the casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it goes in the oven cold.
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).