Vegetable Broccoli Casserole
A comforting broccoli casserole with cheesy, creamy flavors topped with crispy Ritz crackers, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, oleo, eggs, grated cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onions, cream of mushroom soup, and sliced water chestnuts.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the sharp cheddar with a milder cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a vegetarian option. If you want to add more flavor, sauté the onions before mixing them in. This dish is great for meal prep; just make sure to adjust the baking time if you're reheating from frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Vegetable Broccoli Casserole alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Tasty Hush Puppies for a comforting dinner. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be made ahead and easily transported.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture may vary slightly compared to oven reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 590 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 569mg per serving (25% 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! Steam it until tender, then chop and mix it in the same way as the frozen variety. Just ensure it’s cooked enough to blend well with the other ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. It also complements proteins like grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal.
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).