Italian Broccoli Casserole
A hearty Italian broccoli casserole combining cheesy, savory flavors with tender broccoli and tomatoes, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beaten eggs, Cheddar cheese soup, and crushed oregano in a bowl.
- Stir in drained stewed tomatoes and cooked broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a bit of cream to the egg and soup mixture. You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if you prefer; just blanch it before adding. If you're looking for a twist, try adding some cooked pasta or a layer of Italian sausage for extra flavor. This dish also works well with a sprinkle of Italian herbs for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Italian 'Bows' or a light pasta dish like Prima Vera Pasta Salad for a delightful contrast. It’s also a great side for grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover 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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in 30-second intervals until hot. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 442 calories, with 15g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), and calcium (89% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 25g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for a few minutes in boiling water to soften it before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, thanks to the broccoli and cheese. To enhance the dish, you can add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Just ensure the Cheddar cheese soup is vegetarian if you opt for a specific brand.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, just bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s 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).