June'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted Velveeta and rice, topped with cracker crumbs, ideal for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the onion in butter until translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, condensed milk, and Velveeta cheese; stir until smooth.
- Add the soup mixture to the sautéed onion and cook until cheese is melted and mixture is heated through.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
- Add the rice and broccoli to the baking dish and stir thoroughly but carefully to combine.
- Sprinkle a layer of cracker crumbs over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the Velveeta cheese with a sharp cheddar. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked rice and frozen broccoli to speed up the preparation. Additionally, sautéing the onion in a mix of butter and olive oil can enhance the flavor profile of the casserole. This dish can be easily customized with leftover chicken for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a comforting family dinner, serve it alongside grilled chicken or your favorite protein. It's a fantastic side dish for potlucks or gatherings, and it easily complements other casseroles like Deluxe Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of June'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 315 calories, with 9g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 941mg per serving (41% 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 or blanch it briefly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks evenly in the oven. Fresh broccoli will add a vibrant color and texture to the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. Ensure that the cheese used is also vegetarian-friendly, and you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
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).