Mexican Broccoli
Creamy and cheesy Mexican-inspired broccoli casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks craving bold flavors and comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli in 1/4 cup water until tender; drain.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl, then add the cream of mushroom soup, melted Velveeta Mexican cheese, and milk; blend well.
- Place the drained broccoli in a casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you want to reduce calories, you can substitute the Velveeta with a lower-fat cheese. Also, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just steam it until tender. To enhance the flavor, add some diced jalapeños or spices like cumin for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Ham Enchiladas or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside rice or beans for added protein. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it serves well as a side dish or a main course, especially when enjoyed with tortilla chips.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mexican Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat as it may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Broccoli contains roughly 452 calories, with 9g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, giving it a fresher taste.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth or substitute it with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor. Just ensure it's well-blended with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply use a vegetarian cheese alternative instead of Velveeta and opt for a vegetable-based cream soup. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without compromising on dietary preferences.
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).