Zesty Broccoli Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful broccoli casserole with a zesty touch, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, featuring tender broccoli, cheddar, and a crunchy cracker topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in 4 tablespoons of margarine in a large heavy skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and add water, then cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Cook frozen chopped broccoli according to package directions; drain well.
- Add cooked broccoli and both cheeses to the sauce mixture.
- Stir in well beaten eggs.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered flat or oblong baking dish.
- Use the remaining margarine to butter cracker crumbs for the topping.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. If you don't have margarine, butter can be used as a substitute. For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce. Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Zesty Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a light green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It can also complement other vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile option for any gathering.
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 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 456 calories, with 11g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 place of frozen. You'll need to blanch it first to ensure it cooks properly in the casserole. Simply boil the broccoli for a few minutes until tender, then drain and add it to the sauce mixture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute Cheez Whiz with a creamy cheese sauce or even a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheese. This will give you a similar creamy texture and flavor while allowing for some customization.
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).