Grandma Simons' Broccoli Casserole
Grandma Simons' Broccoli Casserole combines tender cooked broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a savory onion and rice base. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Add cooked broccoli, uncooked Minute rice, cream of celery soup, water, milk, and Cheez Whiz to the skillet.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking. If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking. You can also substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh steamed broccoli or even use cauliflower for a variation. This dish also works well as a side for American recipes like fried chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or baked fish. It also makes a great side dish for holiday feasts, complementing flavors of dishes like Aunt Dina's Chili Pie Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, just cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Simons' Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 322 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 598mg per serving (26% 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 different types of rice in this casserole?
Yes, you can use different types of rice, but cooking times may vary. If using brown rice, you may need to pre-cook it partially before adding it to the casserole to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Just ensure the cream of celery soup is vegetarian-friendly and substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of Grandma Simons' Broccoli Casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. However, note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).