Mom'S Broccoli Casserole
A comforting broccoli casserole with cheesy rice and a creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering rich flavors and a hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil broccoli until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and half can of milk to the onion, stirring well.
- Mix in Cheez Whiz until the mixture is creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in cooked rice and broccoli.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or cheese alternatives if you want a lighter version. If you're short on time, pre-cooked broccoli can be used. You can also substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce using cheddar for a richer taste. This dish is versatile and can easily be tailored to fit vegetarian recipes if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or pair it with Dill French Green Beans for a well-rounded meal. It can also be a great side to grilled chicken or meatloaf. For a delightful dessert, finish your meal with Crystal'S Chocolate Chip Cookies for a sweet touch.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It should last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 341 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% 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 is a great choice! Just make sure to steam or boil it until tender before adding it to the casserole. Fresh broccoli will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more delicious.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this broccoli casserole gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. You can also check that the Cheez Whiz is gluten-free, or substitute it with a gluten-free cheese sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without worry.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, assemble it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it straight from the fridge. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
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).