Velveeta Cheese Spread Vegetable Bake
A creamy vegetable bake featuring broccoli and Velveeta cheese, topped with buttery crackers for a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. Birds Eye broccoli cuts
- 3/4 lb. Velveeta process cheese spread
- 3/4 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 Tbsp. Parkay margarine ⓘ
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F.
- Cook broccoli as directed on package, just until heated through.
- Drain the broccoli.
- Mix the cooked broccoli with Velveeta process cheese spread until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle crushed buttery crackers evenly over the top.
- Dot with Parkay margarine.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese mixture before baking. If you don't have buttery crackers, plain breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips can work as substitutes. For a twist, try mixing in cooked chicken or other vegetables like bell peppers. This recipe also fits well in vegetarian recipes when using vegetable stock instead of margarine.
Serving Suggestions
This Velveeta Cheese Spread Vegetable Bake makes a great side dish for grilled meats or a hearty main for a vegetarian meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to balance the richness. It also pairs beautifully with Cranberry Crumb Cake for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Velveeta Cheese Spread Vegetable Bake contains roughly 12 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 in this recipe. Blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before mixing it with the cheese spread. This will ensure the broccoli is tender and ready to bake.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for extra heat. Alternatively, mix in some diced jalapeños for a flavorful kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese and broccoli mixture a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).