Okra In Cheese Sauce
Creamy okra in a cheesy tomato sauce, blending tender vegetables with melted cheese, perfect for a comforting side or vegetarian main dish with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and bell pepper in oleo until tender.
- Add the flour, salt, and pepper; cook briefly to form a roux.
- Add tomatoes and Velveeta cheese; cook just until the cheese is melted.
- Pour the sauce over cooked and drained okra.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother cheese sauce, consider using a combination of Velveeta and a sharp cheddar for added flavor. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, substitute oleo with olive oil or butter. Make sure to cook the roux long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste, and you can add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Okra In Cheese Sauce as a comforting side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Coffee Granola Bars for a unique twist on a meal. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the okra in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat to avoid rubbery okra.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Okra In Cheese Sauce contains roughly 479 calories, with 16g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2001mg per serving (87% 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 okra instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh okra will have a better texture and flavor. Just make sure to wash, trim, and slice it before cooking. You might want to blanch it briefly before adding it to the dish to ensure it’s tender and fully cooked.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to your Okra In Cheese Sauce, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute it with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. This will give you a creamy consistency while adding a richer flavor. Just adjust the amount of milk to achieve the desired thickness.
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).