Paul'S Favorite Broccoli Casserole
A cheesy broccoli casserole with crispy cracker topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, blending creamy cheese with tender broccoli.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli; drain well for at least 1 hour.
- In a saucepan, melt 3/4 stick of margarine with Velveeta cheese until smooth.
- Add cooked broccoli to the cheese mixture; stir well.
- Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Chop or grind the Ritz crackers and mix with 1/4 stick of melted margarine.
- Spoon the cracker mixture on top of the broccoli in the casserole dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the Velveeta with a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add some protein, cooked chicken or turkey can be mixed in with the broccoli. This dish can also be made with frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It can be served as a side dish or a main course, especially if you add protein. For a comforting dessert, consider serving with a slice of Orange Buttermilk Meringue Pie to finish off the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture for the best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paul'S Favorite Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 402 calories, with 9g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 472mg per serving (21% 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 works great in this recipe! Just be sure to cook and drain it well before mixing with the cheese. It’s important to let it cool for about an hour to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crispy.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian! If you want to enhance the flavors, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers. It’s a great option for those looking for hearty vegetarian recipes.
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).