Wisconsin Broccoli Casserole
A creamy broccoli casserole with cheese, onions, and a buttery cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and a hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute minced onions in 4 tablespoons of butter until soft.
- Stir in flour.
- Add water and cook over low heat until thick.
- Blend in processed cheese spread.
- Combine sauce with thawed, well-drained frozen broccoli.
- Add beaten eggs and mix gently.
- Pour into a greased 1 1/2 quart casserole.
- Cover with cracker crumbs and dot with 2 tablespoons butter.
- Bake at 325°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the processed cheese spread with shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using fresh broccoli instead of frozen, but be sure to blanch it first. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option. For a fun twist, consider serving it as a side dish at a potluck or family gathering, where it will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Wisconsin Broccoli Casserole can be stored 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 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wisconsin Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 605 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for this recipe. Just make sure to blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes to soften it before mixing it into the cheese sauce. This will help ensure the broccoli is tender and fully cooked by the time the casserole is done baking.
What can I use instead of cracker crumbs?
If you don't have cracker crumbs on hand, you can substitute them with breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed potato chips for a different crunch. You can also skip the topping altogether for a lighter version, though it adds a nice texture to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! The Wisconsin Broccoli Casserole is already vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure the processed cheese spread you use is vegetarian, and you're good to go. This makes it a great option for those following 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).