Marc'S Broccoli Casserole
A hearty broccoli casserole combining cheesy flavors, rice, and tender vegetables, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comfort and satisfying taste in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pan, melt the margarine.
- Coarsely chop the onion.
- Add chopped broccoli and sauté until tender.
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- When onions are limp, add the cream of chicken, celery, and Cheddar cheese soups and mix thoroughly.
- Add cooked rice to the mixture.
- Pour in milk and half of the shredded Cheddar cheese, then mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a deep 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, sauté the onion until golden brown before adding the broccoli. You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the cream of chicken soup with a plant-based alternative. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder can enhance the dish's depth.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served alongside grilled chicken for a heartier option. Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh fruit salad to round out the meal and add some freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marc'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 460 calories, with 8g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% 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, fresh broccoli can be used, but you'll need to blanch it first to soften it before adding it to the casserole. Cut the broccoli into small florets and boil them in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then shock them in ice water to stop the cooking process.
What can I do if I don't have all the soups listed?
If you're missing one of the soups, you can substitute it with an equal amount of another cream soup, or create a homemade version using a roux, milk, and seasonings. Cream of mushroom or a homemade cheese sauce can work well as alternatives.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and bake it when you're ready to serve. You may need to increase the baking time if it's coming from the fridge.
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).