Broccoli casserole is a versatile dish that brings together the nutritional benefits of broccoli with creamy sauces, cheese, and satisfying toppings. Here are four distinct variations to try, each offering a unique twist on this classic comfort food.
1. Classic Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam fresh broccoli for 3-5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine broccoli, cooked rice, 3/4 cup cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer to Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
2. Broccoli and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen, thawed)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup crushed crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain well.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine broccoli, shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 3/4 cup cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer to Dish: Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Topping: Combine crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Add remaining cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until heated through and the topping is golden.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
3. Vegan Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain well.
- Blend Sauce: In a blender, combine almond milk, nutritional yeast, tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cooked quinoa, white beans, and the sauce. Mix well.
- Transfer to Dish: Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Topping: Combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
4. Spicy Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 1-2 jalapeños, diced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain well.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 3/4 cup pepper jack cheese, diced jalapeños, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer to Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Topping: Mix crushed tortilla chips with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Add remaining cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until heated through and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Conclusion
Broccoli casserole is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer the classic cheese version, want to add chicken, are looking for a vegan option, or enjoy a spicy kick, these recipes are sure to please. Each variation provides a unique take on the beloved dish, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table. Try these recipes for your next family meal or gathering, and enjoy the comforting flavors of broccoli casserole!
I am a graduate of Bangladesh Agricultural University, where I delved into various agricultural disciplines, equipping me with a profound understanding of agriculture. Beyond academics, I have hands-on experience in gardening and crop cultivation. My passion is to embrace sustainable farming and horticulture. With a BSc in Agriculture, I am dedicated to promoting environmentally conscious and efficient agrarian practices.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture (Hons.)
Master of Science. (Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security ) (MS)
Bangladesh Agricultural University