I am so excited to share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes: Broccoli Cheese Casserole! This dish has been a household staple for as long as I can remember. I fondly recall family gatherings where this cheesy goodness was the star of the show, and everyone would come back for seconds (or thirds!). It’s got that warm, cozy vibe that just makes you feel right at home.
What I love most about this casserole is how simple it is to whip up while still being a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to elaborate holiday dinners or a quick weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy, this is it! Plus, if you have kids, they might just forget about their green vegetable protests when they see all that gooey cheese.
What’s in Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
Let’s dive into the yummy ingredients that make this casserole so irresistible:
Broccoli: This green veggie is not only packed with nutrients but also provides a lovely crunch and vibrant color to the dish. Fresh broccoli florets are the best, but frozen can be a lifesaver when you’re short on time.
Cheddar Cheese: The star of the dish! I usually go for sharp cheddar for that extra punch of flavor. I mean, who can resist cheese, right?
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This brings the casserole together beautifully and adds richness. I like to use low-sodium options to keep things balanced.
Rice: I usually use white or brown rice, depending on what I have on hand. It gives the casserole a comforting base and makes it more filling.
Milk: Just a splash adds creaminess and helps meld everything together.
Onion: Sautéed onion gives that aromatic foundation that’s hard to resist. If you have kids who might be onion-averse, you can finely chop them to make them less noticeable!
Is Broccoli Cheese Casserole Good for You?
Honestly, while this dish is undeniably tasty, we do need to keep an eye on a few health considerations:
Broccoli: The shining star of the dish, broccoli is loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and boasts powerful antioxidants. It’s fantastic for immune health!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese provides calcium and protein, let’s be real; it can also add up in calories and saturated fats. Moderation is key here—after all, we’re not trying to serve it every day!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Depending on the brand, this can be high in sodium. So, opting for low-sodium versions is a smart move to keep it healthier.
While this casserole is rich and dreamy, pairing it with a light salad or roasted veggies can balance your meal nicely.
Ingredients List
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (low-sodium is my go-to)
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional breadcrumb topping for added crunch
This recipe serves about 6, making it perfect for a family dinner or for potlucks!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that warm kitchen smell started!
2. If using fresh broccoli, steam it briefly until just tender (around 3-5 minutes). If you’re using frozen, just make sure it’s thawed and drained.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sautéed onion (if using), and half of the cheddar cheese. Give everything a good mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust later!
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and, if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for that extra crunch.
6. Bake for around 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top. It will be hard to resist that aroma wafting through your kitchen!
7. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes (if you can wait!). Then scoop out, serve, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Tips & Variations
– Feel free to play around with the cheese! A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and even a little pepper jack for a spicy kick works wonders.
– You can add cooked chicken or turkey to make it a complete meal!
– Swap the broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower or mixed vegetables to change things up.
– Drizzle a little hot sauce on top before serving for an extra zing!
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a baking dish! I can’t wait for you to give it a try. Whether you serve it on a cold winter night or during a lively family feast, I’m sure it will find a special place at your table. After you make it, I’d love to know how it turned out and if any fun tweaks made it uniquely yours! Enjoy cooking!