Ritzy Broccoli
Ritzy Broccoli is a creamy, cheesy casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The combination of broccoli, Velveeta cheese, and a savory mushroom soup base creates a comforting dish that pairs well with other hearty sides and appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped broccoli in water for 5 minutes; drain well.
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, well-beaten eggs, mayonnaise, and diced Velveeta cheese; mix well.
- Add the drained broccoli to the mixture and pour into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top (can also use corn bread or herb dressing).
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture. If you don’t have Velveeta cheese, feel free to substitute it with cream cheese or a sharp cheddar for a different taste. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen; just steam it until tender. For a crunchier topping, mix in some crushed nuts with the Ritz cracker crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ritzy Broccoli as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or pork. It pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, like a refreshing Pasta Salad - Low-Fat, for a well-rounded meal. Consider adding a simple green salad for a complete dinner, or serve it at potlucks for an inviting vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritzy Broccoli contains roughly 347 calories, with 6g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and 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?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used! Just steam it until tender before adding it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and some broth. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup works well too.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the Ritz cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Double-check the labels on your mayonnaise and cream of mushroom soup to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
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).