Puffed Broccoli-Cheese Casserole
A fluffy, cheesy broccoli casserole with a golden, puffy top—perfect for family dinners, combining creamy flavors with a light, airy texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 11 x 7 x 1 1/2-inch pan.
- Mix the cream of broccoli soup, milk, flour, dry mustard, and pepper in a saucepan. Stir over medium heat until almost boiling.
- Remove the mixture from heat.
- Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Incorporate the beaten egg yolks and the thawed, squeezed-dry broccoli into the cheese mixture until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the broccoli mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until the top is golden, puffy, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don’t have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can be a great substitute. You can also swap the frozen broccoli for fresh if you prefer. Just blanch it briefly before adding to the mixture. For an extra flavor boost, add some grated garlic or onion powder to the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Puffed Broccoli-Cheese Casserole is perfect as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a slice of Pound Cake Sandwich (Kid'S Recipe) for dessert. Enjoy it warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Puffed Broccoli-Cheese Casserole contains roughly 470 calories, with 9g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
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 ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella provides great flavor and meltability. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist. Just ensure any cheese you choose melts well.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or even corn for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the moisture content accordingly to keep the casserole from becoming too wet.
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).