"Ritzy" Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli until tender, then drain.
- Add chopped onion to the cooked broccoli.
- Mix in half of the melted butter and the cubed Velveeta cheese until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
- Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the crackers and casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the Velveeta cheese with cream cheese. If you prefer fresh broccoli, use about 6 cups of lightly steamed florets instead of frozen. To enhance the flavor, consider adding some garlic powder or a sprinkle of paprika to the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese and butter alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or whole grain bread. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks. Consider complementing it with a light dessert like Raspberry Strawberry Cake Squares to balance the richness.
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 for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Ritzy" Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 270 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh broccoli, just use about 6 cups of lightly steamed florets. Make sure to not overcook them, as you'll want them tender but still vibrant. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they stay crisp in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use any buttery cracker or even crushed potato chips for a different texture. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free cracker varieties available that work well in this recipe.
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).