Jean'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with tender rice and a crispy onion topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This comforting dish combines broccoli, Cheez Whiz, and cream of broccoli soup for a rich flavor profile that appeals to all ages and pairs well with simple sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, chopped onion, and margarine to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the frozen broccoli and stir until thawed.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cooked rice.
- Cover and let stand for five minutes.
- Stir in Cheez Whiz and cream of broccoli soup until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with onion rings.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside the Cheez Whiz. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce using shredded cheese and milk. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just steam it lightly before adding it to the mix for best results.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner, serve alongside baked chicken or grilled fish. It also works great as a side dish for holiday gatherings, complementing flavors of roasted meats and other hearty dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 635 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg per serving (31% 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, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam it lightly until tender before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks evenly. Fresh broccoli will add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your dish.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this casserole is a great option for vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the Cheez Whiz and cream of broccoli soup you use are vegetarian-friendly, as some brands may contain meat-derived ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble all the ingredients and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This will allow the flavors to meld and make for an easy meal on a busy day.
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).