Serbian Broccoli Hot Dish
A comforting Serbian-style broccoli hot dish featuring cheesy, eggy flavors with tender broccoli, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli in salted water until tender.
- In a bowl, mix the beaten eggs, cottage cheese, and flour until well combined.
- Cube the margarine and Velveeta cheese.
- Mix the cooked broccoli with the egg mixture and the cubed margarine and cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta instead of cottage cheese. You can also substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if preferred, just adjust cooking time accordingly. If you want a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. Pairing with a fresh salad, like Simple Fruit Salad, can enhance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is great as a main course or a side. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread. For a vegetarian option, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Serbian Broccoli Hot Dish contains roughly 401 calories, with 11g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 621mg 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 use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam it until tender before mixing it with the other ingredients. Fresh broccoli will offer a crunchier texture, which can complement the creamy filling nicely.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. This will allow you to enjoy the dish without gluten while maintaining a similar texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
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).