Mother'S Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted Cheez Whiz, tender onions and celery, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook celery and onion in margarine until tender.
- Cook and drain broccoli.
- In a bowl, combine Cheez Whiz, soup, and Minute rice.
- Add cooked celery and onion mixture and mix well.
- Stir in the cooked broccoli last.
- Bake in a covered dish at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or nutritional yeast for a vegan version. You can also replace the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli, just blanch it first to maintain its vibrant color and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a wonderful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Stuffed Baked Pork Chops or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with warm, crusty bread or a side of potato stir-fry to round out the dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with aluminum foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 944 calories, with 9g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1148mg per serving (50% 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 make sure to blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help retain its vibrant color and crunch, enhancing the dish's texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure that your Cheez Whiz is gluten-free as well. You can also substitute the Minute rice with a gluten-free grain, like quinoa or brown rice.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
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).