Shenandoah Valley Broccoli
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with a savory mushroom flavor, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the frozen broccoli.
- Put the cooked broccoli into a 1 1/2-quart greased casserole dish.
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup, grated Cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, and minced onion.
- Pour the mixture over the broccoli in the casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce or a different cream soup if desired. If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the broccoli to prevent a watery casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Shenandoah Valley Broccoli dish is perfect as a side for roasted chicken or grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Corn Fritters(Great For Leftover Corn.) for a comforting meal. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some warm, crusty bread. This dish also works great for potlucks and family gatherings.
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 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shenandoah Valley Broccoli contains roughly 454 calories, with 11g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 468mg per serving (20% 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! Blanch it in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, then drain and cool it before adding it to the casserole. This helps to soften the broccoli while retaining its vibrant color and nutrition.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake it, remove the wrap and bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
Consider adding some cooked chopped bacon or diced ham for a smoky flavor. You could also mix in some garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the overall taste of the dish.
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).