Jo'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole topped with crunchy cracker crumbs, featuring a cheesy sauce and baked to perfection, ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté the finely chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add water gradually, stirring constantly, and cook over low heat until the mixture thickens.
- Blend in the Cheez Whiz cheese until smooth.
- Combine this sauce with cooked broccoli and slightly beaten eggs.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt in place of Cheez Whiz. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs work well too. Add some garlic or spices to the onion while sautéing for extra flavor. Make sure to not overcook the broccoli to retain its bright color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with a side of crusty bread. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread alongside dishes like Tomato Jalapeno Cheese Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven helps retain the casserole's crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jo'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 500 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 41g fat.
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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture. You might want to briefly steam or microwave it to ensure it's tender before mixing it with the sauce.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to Cheez Whiz?
Absolutely! You can substitute Cheez Whiz with a plant-based cheese or a homemade cheese sauce made from cashews. Simply blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and spices for a delicious dairy-free option that complements the casserole well.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up until the baking step and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake it, remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes to take the chill off before baking as usual.
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).