That Broccoli Stuff
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with mushrooms and crunchy crackers, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven if baking, or prepare to serve as a hot casserole.
- Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté or steam the broccoli and sliced mushrooms until tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli and mushrooms with the cream of mushroom soup.
- Add 3 to 4 cups of grated cheese and mix well.
- Crumble saltine crackers and sprinkle over the top of the mixture.
- Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden, or serve directly if prepared as a chilled salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup. If you're looking to add more flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or onion powder into the mixture. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the dish too. Substitute the cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a delightful twist. If you have leftovers, consider adding cooked chicken for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. If you're entertaining, consider offering it as a side dish with Nanny-Grammy'S Cream Cheese Pound Cake for dessert. It's versatile enough to be served at potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. For a quick reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of That Broccoli Stuff contains roughly 72 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (98% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish to avoid a watery consistency.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix in mozzarella for meltiness or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just wait to add the saltine cracker topping until right before baking to keep it crunchy.
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).