Janessa'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, blending cheesy, savory flavors perfect for family dinners or potlucks that enjoy comforting, hearty dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli and chopped onion until tender.
- Drain and pour into a casserole dish.
- Add grated cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and beaten egg.
- Mix together until blended evenly.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the broccoli mixture. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with homemade or a different cream soup, like cream of chicken, if you prefer. For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and soup. If you're short on time, using frozen broccoli works well in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a comforting main dish alongside a fresh salad or pair it with roasted chicken for a complete meal. It also complements well with sides like Green Peas Au Gratin or Grandma Hills Rolls. For a vegetarian option, you can enjoy this casserole with a side of steamed vegetables for a wholesome dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the crispiness of the Ritz cracker topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Janessa'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 492 calories, with 10g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 477mg per serving (21% 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 broccoli casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and bake it at 350°F for about 1 hour, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can customize this casserole by adding other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers. Just make sure to chop them finely and cook until tender, similar to the broccoli and onion. This flexibility makes it a great way to use up leftover veggies from your fridge.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this broccoli casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers in place of Ritz crackers. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without any dietary concerns.
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).