Mother'S Broccoli Casserole(Pearl Bassett)
A creamy broccoli casserole topped with crispy Ritz crackers, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings. The combination of cheese, mayonnaise, and onion creates a rich flavor profile that pairs well with roast meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked broccoli, mayonnaise, beaten egg, undiluted celery soup, grated cheese, and grated onion or onion flakes in a bowl.
- Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the cooked broccoli in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top of the mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you want to enhance the flavor, add some garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if preferred, just make sure it's steamed before mixing. For a crunchy topping, use crushed crackers like Ritz or even panko bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier dinner. It's a great side dish for potlucks and family gatherings, making it a perfect choice for gatherings where comfort food is appreciated.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method retains the crispiness of the topping better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Broccoli Casserole(Pearl Bassett) contains roughly 875 calories, with 8g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), and protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it. This allows the flavors to meld together. When you're ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What can I use instead of celery soup?
If you don't have celery soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce with sautéed celery and onions. This will give a similar creamy texture and flavor profile while allowing for some customization based on your pantry ingredients.
Can I freeze the broccoli casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Prepare it as directed but do not bake. Instead, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly after freezing.
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).