Quickie Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and easy-to-make broccoli casserole that combines the earthy flavor of broccoli with creamy mushrooms and sharp Cheddar cheese. Topped with buttery Ritz crackers, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli for 5 minutes; set aside to drain.
- Combine mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, and Cheddar cheese, stirring in the broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart buttered casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Drizzle melted or squeeze margarine over the crackers.
- Cook for 30 to 45 minutes until crackers are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the mayonnaise mixture. If you want to make this dish lighter, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For a twist, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. Always drain the broccoli well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It can also be served as a hearty side dish alongside chicken or beef. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a quinoa salad or over a bed of rice. It's a versatile dish that complements many main courses.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, but the texture may vary slightly compared to the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quickie Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 726 calories, with 12g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 708mg per serving (31% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to avoid extra moisture in the casserole. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly if the broccoli is still icy.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed cornflakes. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat. Check labels carefully for hidden gluten.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the crushed crackers and melted margarine right before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy evenings or gatherings.
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).