Cheesy Almond Broccoli Bake with Crispy Croutons

Aunt Liz’s Almond Broccoli Casserole

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Prepare to fall in love with a cozy, comforting dish that’s a true family favorite. Aunt Liz’s Almond Broccoli Casserole combines tender broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce topped with crunchy almonds and savory croutons. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this delectable dish to life!

Ingredients

4 to 6 cups of fresh broccoli florets – Make sure the broccoli is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
1 clove of garlic, minced – This will add a subtle kick of flavor to the dish.
1 medium onion, finely chopped – For a sweet and savory base.
¼ cup butter – To sauté the vegetables and create a rich base.
1 cup Cheese Whiz – This will create the creamy, cheesy texture that’s the hallmark of this casserole.
¾ cup sliced mushrooms – Adds a layer of earthy flavor.
1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup – For a creamy consistency and added flavor.
½ cup slivered almonds – For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
½ cup croutons – To sprinkle on top for a crispy finish.

Instructions

Pre-stream the Broccoli: Start by steaming the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. This initial steaming helps to soften the broccoli without losing its vibrant color and nutrients.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation of your casserole.
Prepare the Sauce Mixture: To the sautéed onions and garlic, add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, Cheese Whiz, and sliced mushrooms. Stir continuously until the Cheese Whiz is fully melted and the mixture is well combined. This will create a creamy sauce that will coat the broccoli perfectly.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Place the steamed broccoli into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the broccoli, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Add the Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle the slivered almonds evenly over the casserole, followed by the croutons. The almonds will add a delightful nutty crunch, while the croutons will provide a satisfying crispiness on top.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together and the toppings to achieve a crispy texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 303.6
Fat: 22.5g
Saturated Fat: 10.3g
Cholesterol: 45.1mg
Sodium: 940.8mg
Carbohydrates: 18.1g
Fiber: 3.7g
Sugar: 6.2g
Protein: 10.4g

Serving Suggestions

Serve Aunt Liz’s Almond Broccoli Casserole alongside a simple grilled chicken breast or a juicy steak for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some fluffy rice. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course or a hearty side dish.

Tips and Variations

For a Vegetarian Option: Ensure that the Cheese Whiz and soup used are vegetarian-friendly.
Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy making and sharing Aunt Liz’s Almond Broccoli Casserole, and watch as it quickly becomes a cherished favorite at your table. Happy cooking! 🥦🧀🍄