Ruby Broccoli
A cheesy broccoli casserole with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy finish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to directions and drain.
- Add chopped onion, eggs, cream of mushroom soup, grated Cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise to the broccoli; mix well.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some cooked, crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers for extra flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also use frozen broccoli instead of fresh, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing. This dish pairs well with Buttery Grated Carrots for a colorful plate.
Serving Suggestions
This Ruby Broccoli casserole can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs nicely with roasted chicken or grilled steak for a complete meal. Additionally, a light salad, such as Blueberry Salad (Congealed), can complement the richness of this casserole beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruby Broccoli contains roughly 639 calories, with 9g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (18% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 613mg per serving (27% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the crushed Ritz crackers just before baking to keep them crunchy. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use any cream soup, such as cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. There are also vegan options available if you're looking for vegetarian recipes that suit dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Ruby Broccoli casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat.
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).