Smashed Potato And Broccoli Casserole
A comforting smashed potato and broccoli casserole featuring cheesy, creamy flavors with a hint of dill, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, with a hearty and nutritious profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place potatoes in a saucepan, cover with water, and cook for 20 minutes or until tender.
- Drain potatoes, reserving 1 cup of cooking liquid.
- Return potatoes and liquid to the pan.
- Mash with a potato masher until slightly chunky.
- Add chopped broccoli, diced onion, ricotta cheese, dill, salt, ground red pepper (if using), and sour cream to the pan.
- Stir well to combine.
- Spoon mixture into an 11 x 7 inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also use frozen broccoli instead of fresh; just thaw and drain it before adding. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the ground red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce. To save time, consider using pre-cooked potatoes or microwave the potatoes for quicker cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with Lottie'S Salad for a fresh side. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish or with a dollop of additional sour cream on top. Consider serving it with Small Dinner Rolls to soak up any extra creamy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in the microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smashed Potato And Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 226 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1447mg per serving (63% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge for about 30 minutes to bring it to room temperature, then bake as directed. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep or entertaining.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare and assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. It may take a little longer to heat through if still cold.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese is a great alternative. Blend it slightly for a smoother texture. Cream cheese can also work, though it will give a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as cream cheese can be saltier than ricotta.
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).