Addicting Broccoli Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines broccoli, cheese, and a crunchy topping. It’s a popular side dish in many households and often makes appearances at holiday gatherings. Let’s break down the details you requested:
What is Addicting Broccoli Casserole?
Addicting Broccoli Casserole is a baked dish made primarily from broccoli florets, a creamy cheese sauce, and a topping of buttery crackers or breadcrumbs. The name “addicting” suggests that it’s so tasty that you can’t stop eating it!
History:
The exact origin of Addicting Broccoli Casserole is not well-documented, but casseroles in general have been a part of American cuisine for a long time. Combining vegetables, cheese, and a crunchy topping in a casserole form has been a popular cooking method for many decades.
Components:
To make Addicting Broccoli Casserole, you’ll typically need the following components:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps to Prepare Addicting Broccoli Casserole:
Here are the steps to prepare this delightful casserole:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are slightly tender. Drain and set them aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, beaten eggs, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
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Add the steamed broccoli to the mixture and stir until the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheese and mayonnaise mixture.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
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In a separate bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the broccoli mixture in the baking dish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
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Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Addicting Broccoli Casserole is approximately 45-50 minutes, including prep and baking time. It’s a relatively easy dish to make and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser due to its cheesy, creamy, and crunchy goodness.
Enjoy your homemade Addicting Broccoli Casserole, and remember that its addictive flavor might have you coming back for seconds!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Addicting Broccoli Casserole:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approximate values):
- Calories: 350-400 calories
- Total Fat: 25-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 75-100 mg
- Sodium: 500-600 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 3-4 grams
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Vitamin A: 15-20% DV (Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 60-70% DV
- Calcium: 20-25% DV
- Iron: 6-8% DV
Health Information:
- Broccoli, the main ingredient in this casserole, is a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and dietary fiber.
- Cheese in moderation can provide calcium and protein but also adds saturated fat and sodium to the dish. Consider using lower-fat cheese options to reduce saturated fat.
- Mayonnaise and butter contribute to the richness of the casserole but are high in calories and fat. You can use light or reduced-fat versions to reduce calorie and fat content.
- The casserole contains a moderate amount of protein, making it a satisfying side dish.
- The vitamin C content from the broccoli contributes to immune support and collagen formation in the body.
- The dietary fiber from broccoli aids in digestion and can help promote a feeling of fullness.
It’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie, fat, or sodium intake. You can also consider making some ingredient substitutions or adjustments to make it a healthier option, such as using low-fat mayo and cheese or reducing the butter and cracker topping.
