Shirley'S Easy Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with melted cheese, mushrooms, and crispy crackers, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil broccoli in salted water for 5 minutes; drain well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, beaten egg, grated cheese, mushrooms (if using), chopped onion, and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish; dot the top with butter.
- Sprinkle crushed saltine or Ritz crackers over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the sharp cheese with mozzarella or cheddar based on your preference. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers. For added flavor, sauté the onions before mixing them in. This dish can easily be adjusted to suit vegetarian recipes by omitting the mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats or a holiday feast. For a comforting family dinner, serve it alongside baked chicken or even with a slice of hearty bread. Don't forget to try it with a dollop of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Easy Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 299 calories, with 6g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (26% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 definitely use fresh broccoli! Just steam it for about 5 minutes until tender before adding it to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will add a great crunch and vibrant color to the casserole.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a homemade version by combining milk, butter, flour, and chopped mushrooms. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce can work well as a substitute.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).