Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole

🥦 Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole 🧀

History:
Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a classic, hearty dish that has been a staple at family gatherings for generations. It’s a comforting casserole dish that gained popularity in the mid-20th century, combining the goodness of broccoli and the richness of cheese. It has become a cherished recipe in many households and often graces holiday tables and potluck dinners.

Components:

1. Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets are the star of this dish. They provide a healthy and vibrant green color.
2. Cheese: The cheese sauce is what makes this casserole so creamy and flavorful. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use other varieties like Gruyère or Swiss.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup adds a delicious and savory element to the casserole.
4. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder are used to enhance the flavor.
5. Topping: The casserole is often topped with a crunchy topping, which can include breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crispy fried onions.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prep the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, wash and chop it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it according to package instructions.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

3. Combine Broccoli and Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, mix the broccoli and the cheese sauce until the broccoli is evenly coated.

4. Transfer to a Casserole Dish: Pour the broccoli-cheese mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle your chosen topping (breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or fried onions) on top of the casserole for that perfect crunchy finish.

6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

7. Serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then serve your Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole while it’s still hot and gooey!

Time Needed:
Preparation time is approximately 15-20 minutes, and the baking time is around 30-35 minutes. So, in total, you can expect to spend about 45-55 minutes to prepare and bake Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious casserole at your next family gathering or holiday meal! 🥦🧀😋

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7-10g
• Cholesterol: 25-35mg
• Sodium: 550-700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-5g
  • Sugars: 2-3g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Vitamin A: 15-20% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin C: 70-80% of the daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 25-30% of the daily recommended intake
• Iron: 5-8% of the daily recommended intake

Health Information:

1. High in Fiber: Broccoli is a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain a feeling of fullness.

2. Rich in Vitamins: Broccoli in this casserole provides a significant amount of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. It also contains vitamin A, important for eye health.

3. Calcium for Strong Bones: The cheese in the casserole contributes to the calcium content, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

4. Moderation is Key: While this casserole has nutritional benefits, it’s also relatively high in calories and saturated fat due to the cheese and cream soup. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

5. Vegetable Serving: Aunt Linda’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. However, remember to balance it with other nutrient-rich foods for a well-rounded meal.

6. Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns related to high sodium intake. You can reduce the salt content by using low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and by seasoning judiciously.

Keep in mind that these nutrition facts can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to check product labels for precise nutritional information if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.