Vicki'S Broccoli Bake
A cheesy broccoli casserole with a creamy base, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions, blending vegetables with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the frozen chopped broccoli.
- Combine the cooked broccoli, cream of celery or mushroom soup, grated sharp cheese, beaten egg, chopped onion, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with additional grated cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, uncovered, until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you're out of cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom is a perfect substitute. You can also use fresh broccoli, just steam it lightly before adding to the mix. Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli bake is a delicious side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with a slice of cornbread from the World'S Greatest Cornbread recipe for a complete meal. It's also a great addition to a potluck or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vicki'S Broccoli Bake contains roughly 657 calories, with 17g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1119mg per serving (49% 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 definitely use fresh broccoli! Just make sure to steam or blanch it lightly before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture in the bake.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can ensure it remains so by checking that the cheese is made without animal rennet. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of cream of celery or mushroom soup can enhance the flavor while keeping it vegetarian.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
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).