Spicy Broccoli Casserole(Makes 6 To 8 Servings)
A spicy broccoli casserole loaded with onions, mushrooms, pimentos, and cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings craving bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
- 2 (10 oz.) packages frozen chopped broccoli ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) jar small onions, drained ⓘ
- 1 (4 oz.) can whole mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1 (2 oz.) jar chopped pimentos, drained ⓘ
- 1/4 cup slivered toasted almonds
- 1/4 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can condensed cream of celery soup ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli according to package directions; drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, drained small onions, drained mushrooms, drained chopped pimentos, toasted slivered almonds, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with the undiluted cream of celery soup and top with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Spicy Broccoli Casserole, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. You can also replace the cream of celery soup with a homemade version or a different cream soup. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Broccoli Casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs beautifully with Thelma'S Light Rolls for a comforting meal. Consider adding a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the flavors. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Broccoli Casserole(Makes 6 To 8 Servings) contains roughly 488 calories, with 19g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (141% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg 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 or blanch it until tender before combining it with the other ingredients. Fresh broccoli will provide a different texture and flavor, making the casserole even more delicious.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian as it doesn't contain meat. Ensure that the cream of celery soup and cheese you use are vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat level, try adding more cayenne pepper or mixing in some diced jalapeños. You could also experiment with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
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).