Grandma Mccray'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted cheese, rice, and savory vegetables, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the Velveeta cheese and margarine together.
- Mix the semi-frozen chopped broccoli, uncooked Minute rice, and undiluted mushroom soup in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour in hot water and add most of the melted cheese and margarine.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the remaining cheese mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the cheese mixture before combining. If you prefer a healthier alternative, swap out the Velveeta for a blend of shredded cheddar and cream cheese. Fresh broccoli can also be used in place of frozen; just blanch it for a few minutes before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This flavorful casserole makes a great side dish for grilled chicken or baked fish. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Guilt Free Roasted Potatoes for a comforting dinner. Leftovers can be enjoyed for lunch or as a quick snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Mccray'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 514 calories, with 10g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1073mg per serving (47% 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 make sure to blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole for the best texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this broccoli casserole vegetarian, ensure that the mushroom soup you use is meat-free. Most canned versions are vegetarian, but it's always good to check the label for any meat-based ingredients.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).