Vicki'S Broccoli Casserole
A comforting broccoli casserole featuring cheesy, creamy flavors with tender broccoli, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, topped with crunchy crackers for added texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli until almost tender.
- Sauté onion slightly.
- Combine all ingredients (except crackers) in a large baking dish and mix well.
- Crush crackers and place on top of the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you prefer a more robust flavor, sauté the onion until golden brown. You can also substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh steamed broccoli or cauliflower. For a crunchier topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of crackers, or mix some grated cheese with the crushed crackers for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks, complementing other dishes like Sloppy Chocolate Cake or Vanillla Or Chocolate Shake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vicki'S Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 1117 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just make sure to blanch it briefly in boiling water until it's slightly tender before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated through.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Broccoli Casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it primarily contains vegetables, cheese, and rice. Just ensure that the Cheez Whiz and cream of celery soup you use do not contain any meat-based ingredients, making it a perfect addition to vegetarian recipes.
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).