Hot Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with mushrooms and onions, topped with bread crumbs and butter, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the broccoli.
- Cube the mozzarella cheese.
- Drain the mushrooms.
- Chop the onions and dice the garlic very small.
- In a frying pan, melt the butter.
- Fry the onions and garlic in the butter.
- In a large bowl, mix the broccoli, cheese, mushrooms, and fried onions.
- Beat in 2 eggs and mix well.
- Grease a casserole dish and add the mixture, smoothing the top.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top until covered.
- Lay 6 to 8 pats of butter on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen, just steam it lightly before mixing. If you prefer a different cheese, try cheddar or gouda instead of mozzarella. Adding some crushed red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover vegetables too!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Broccoli Casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main dish paired with a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Rhubarb Strawberry Coffee Cake for a delightful meal. Consider adding some roasted potatoes or a simple garlic bread for a complete dinner experience.
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 for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 849 calories, with 44g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (96% of the Daily Value), protein (89% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1328mg per serving (58% 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, fresh broccoli can be used! Just make sure to steam it lightly before mixing it into the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as fresh broccoli might cook faster than frozen.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs. You can also crush gluten-free crackers or use ground almonds as a topping. This ensures everyone can enjoy the dish without compromising on taste or texture.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it convenient for meal prep or potlucks.
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).