Herbed Broccoli
Herbed Broccoli is a comforting, cheesy casserole with a savory blend of broccoli, rice, and sharp cheese, accented by thyme and onion. Perfect as a side or light main dish, it offers a creamy texture with a hint of herbs, appealing to cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli according to package directions; drain.
- Combine the cooked broccoli with cooked rice, shredded cheese, beaten eggs, margarine, milk, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and ground thyme.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased, shallow 1-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some garlic powder or substituting half of the sharp cheese with a milder variety like mozzarella. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or even leftover rice from a previous meal. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just blanch it briefly before mixing it in. This dish also works well as a base for additional vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This herbed broccoli casserole makes a great side dish for grilled chicken or fish. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It's also delicious served alongside American recipes like Pat'S Cheese Bread for a comforting dinner. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of additional cheese before serving for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions on medium heat for a quicker option, ensuring they heat evenly to prevent cold spots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Broccoli contains roughly 915 calories, with 22g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (138% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (99% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1060mg per serving (46% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Just make sure they are pre-cooked or sautéed to ensure they are tender when the casserole is done baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until heated through.
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).