Surprisingly Good Broccoli Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful broccoli casserole with a crunchy herb topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining tender broccoli with rich cheese and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the chopped broccoli and chopped onion, adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the cooking water.
- Place the cooked broccoli and onion mixture in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the shredded Cheddar cheese, undiluted cream of mushroom soup, and mayonnaise to the bowl, and mix well.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the Pepperidge Farm herb dressing mix evenly over the top.
- Dot the dish with small pieces of butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with a milder variety or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, a homemade white sauce can work as a replacement. Adding a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor profile, giving it a delightful kick.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, such as Pear Salad Or Pineapple Salad, to balance its richness. It's an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings, and it can be served as a hearty main dish or a comforting side. Consider accompanying it with a light protein, like grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprisingly Good Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 543 calories, with 10g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
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, fresh broccoli can be used. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and steam or blanch until tender before mixing. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as fresh broccoli will take less time to soften compared to frozen.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it uses cream of mushroom soup and doesn’t contain meat. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the soup, are labeled vegetarian. You can also add extra vegetables to enhance 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).