Not Too Rich Broccoli
A creamy, cheesy broccoli side dish featuring tender broccoli spears topped with velvety mayonnaise and melted Velveeta cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli until barely tender. Arrange in a baking dish.
- Add lemon juice gradually to the mayonnaise, stirring constantly. Drizzle over broccoli.
- Top with cheese slices.
- Place, uncovered, in a 350°F oven until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also experiment with different cheeses; mozzarella or cheddar can be good alternatives. If using fresh broccoli, steam it lightly before baking to ensure it doesn't become overcooked. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor as well. This dish pairs beautifully with Pecan-Oatmeal Cake for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this broccoli dish as a delightful side with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also complements a light salad or rice pilaf. For a complete vegetarian option, pair with a hearty grain like quinoa. This dish could be a great addition to any gathering, and it pairs well with Chad'S Favorite Lemon Pound Cake for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Not Too Rich Broccoli contains roughly 132 calories, with 7g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 806mg per serving (35% 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 instead of frozen. Just be sure to steam it lightly before adding it to the baking dish, as fresh broccoli may require a bit more cooking time to reach the same tenderness as frozen.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Additionally, replace mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a blended avocado for a creamy texture without dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to bake, as it may need longer to heat through from cold.
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).