Broccoli Casserole Recipe
This comforting Broccoli Casserole is a delightful and hearty vegetable dish that is perfect for any family meal or special occasion. With a creamy texture, savory flavors, and a satisfying crunch from the topping, it serves as an excellent side dish to accompany any main course. Whether you’re looking to create a wholesome dinner or simply need a dish to complement your holiday spread, this casserole is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen broccoli | 2 cups |
| Fresh broccoli | 1 cup |
| Fresh mushrooms | 1 cup |
| Fresh mushrooms (optional) | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 2 cups |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 656.2 |
| Fat Content | 52.1g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 21g |
| Cholesterol Content | 87.4mg |
| Sodium Content | 1564.2mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 38.4g |
| Fiber Content | 5.5g |
| Sugar Content | 8.5g |
| Protein Content | 14.3g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Broccoli: Start by spreading the frozen broccoli and fresh broccoli evenly into a 2-quart casserole dish. If you prefer, you can use all fresh broccoli, but a combination of frozen and fresh gives the best results.
-
-
Layer with Mushrooms: Next, top the broccoli layer with fresh mushrooms. You can choose to use the extra cup of mushrooms for added texture and flavor, or keep it simple with a single layer.
-
Mix the Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the creamy mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice. This will form the base of your creamy casserole sauce. Adjust the lemon juice to taste, ensuring that the mixture has a refreshing, tangy lemon flavor.
-
Season: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your preference. The amount of lemon juice should be tangy enough to stand out, but not overpowering. A bit of extra salt can help to balance out the richness of the mayo and the vegetables.
-
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mayonnaise and lemon juice mixture generously over the broccoli and mushroom layers in the casserole dish, making sure everything is evenly coated.
-
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, melt the butter and margarine together. Once melted, toss the breadcrumbs in the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
-
Top with Breadcrumbs and Parmesan: Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole, then top with grated Parmesan cheese for that rich, cheesy crust.
-
Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Casserole
- Choose the Right Broccoli: Using a combination of frozen and fresh broccoli provides both flavor and convenience. If you prefer all fresh, it works just as well.
- Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier casserole, feel free to add extra Parmesan or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to the topping.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking from cold.
This easy and flavorful Broccoli Casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy vegetables in a comforting and delicious way. The creamy sauce, tender vegetables, and crispy topping make this a side dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or as part of a holiday meal, this casserole will be a hit at your table. Enjoy!
