Oh, the comfort of a warm casserole on a chilly evening—like a cozy hug from a beloved sweater you forgot you had. This cheesy broccoli casserole, practically a legend in my family, brings together tender broccoli and gooey cheese in a way that feels like a nostalgic trip to those potluck dinners of the past. Why do we love it so much? Maybe it’s the way the cheese bubbles over the edges, or how the broccoli still manages to taste fresh and vibrant beneath the creamy layers.
Steps
- In a bowl, combine condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and an egg until well blended.
- Add in frozen broccoli florets and freshly grated Cheddar cheese, stirring until the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a pre-greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the casserole in a preheated oven until it is hot and bubbly.
Ingredients
- 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1 chopped onion
- Frozen broccoli florets
- Grated Cheddar cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
FAQ
- Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli florets?
- Yes, you can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen. It’s recommended to steam the fresh broccoli first to ensure it’s tender before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- What can I use as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
- If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can replace it with an equal amount of cream of onion soup or Alfredo sauce. Both options will still provide a creamy texture and delicious flavor.
- How should I store leftover broccoli cheese casserole?
- To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy again.
- Can I add other ingredients to enhance the casserole?
- Certainly! Many people enjoy adding ingredients like red pepper, French-fried onions, buttered crackers, or a combination of different cheeses such as American, Cheddar, and Velveeta for added flavor and texture.
- Is it possible to make this recipe without mayonnaise?
- While mayonnaise provides richness and a slight tang, you can experiment with Greek yogurt or sour cream as alternatives to maintain a creamy consistency.
Tips
- For added flavor and texture, consider incorporating red pepper, French-fried onions, or buttered cracker crumbs into the casserole mixture and sprinkling some on top before baking.
- If you prefer using fresh broccoli rather than frozen, steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.
- If you’re out of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute with cream of onion or even Alfredo sauce for a unique twist and equally delicious results.
- Grate your own Cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the casserole.
Equipment
- Cheese Casserole, which you could find on Amazon:
- Baking dish (if you don’t have one suitable for casseroles)
- Cheese grater (if you don’t have one to grate Cheddar cheese)
- Airtight container (for storing leftovers)
