Granny Ruth'S Broccoli Casserole
A comforting broccoli casserole featuring melted cheese, crispy cracker topping, and rich buttery flavor, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli for 5 minutes.
- Place the cooked broccoli in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Melt 1/2 stick of margarine and pour it over the broccoli.
- Layer grated cheese on top of the broccoli.
- Add mashed Ritz crackers over the cheese.
- Pour 1/4 pound of melted margarine over the cracker layer.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F for about 30 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup or a dollop of sour cream to the broccoli before layering the cheese. If you want to reduce calories, substitute low-fat cheese or use whole wheat Ritz crackers. Fresh broccoli can also be steamed in place of frozen, but will require a longer cooking time. Browse more vegetarian recipes for similar ideas.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken and pairs beautifully with Mother'S Coconut Pound Cake for dessert. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead of time.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven method will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny Ruth'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 374 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber.
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, but you'll need to steam it first to ensure it cooks properly in the casserole. Steam the fresh broccoli until tender, then follow the rest of the recipe as instructed. This will add a fresher flavor and a bit of crunch to the dish.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use crushed butter crackers or even breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter for a similar texture. Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier topping. Adjust the amount to suit your preference for a thicker or thinner layer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it as directed. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven if baked straight from the fridge.
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).