Open Line Casserole
A comforting casserole combining broccoli, cauliflower, creamy soup, and cheesy flavors, topped with crispy onion rings—perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli and cauliflower until tender, then drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with the cream of celery soup and Cheez Whiz; heat until the cheese melts and mixture is well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with French fried onion rings, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until onion rings are crispy and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce if preferred. If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom or chicken can work as a good alternative. For added flavor, a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Open Line Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or serves as a hearty side dish for grilled meats. You might also enjoy it alongside Easy Home Style Potato Salad for a comforting meal. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, serve it with some roasted vegetables or bread for a complete dinner.
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 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Open Line Casserole contains roughly 139 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 and cauliflower instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli and cauliflower! Just steam or blanch them until tender before mixing with the soup and cheese. This will give the casserole a fresher taste and maintain more texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You can also top the casserole with crushed red pepper flakes before baking for an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, as it will be starting 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).