5 Delicious Broccoli Casserole Recipes to Try Tonight

Broccoli, with its rich nutrients and distinctive flavor, is a vegetable that often finds its way onto our plates. Yet, many of us are still searching for new and exciting ways to enjoy it. Broccoli casseroles offer a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying option, turning the humble vegetable into a meal highlight. Here are five delectable broccoli casserole recipes that you can try tonight, promising not only a delicious meal but also ensuring your family gets their daily dose of greens.

1. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This casserole combines the creaminess of cheese with the hearty texture of rice and broccoli, making it a comforting dish for any occasion.

• 3 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, milk, and garlic powder. Mix well.
3. Add in most of the cheddar cheese, saving some for the topping.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
5. Top with the remaining cheese and bread crumbs. Drizzle with melted butter.
6. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

2. Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

A perfect blend of protein, vegetables, and creamy Alfredo sauce, this casserole is both filling and flavorful.

• 2 cups cooked, cubed chicken breast
• 2 cups broccoli florets, cooked
• 1 jar Alfredo sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
3. Layer half of this mixture in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
4. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Vegan Broccoli Casserole

For those avoiding dairy, this vegan casserole uses nutritious ingredients to create a dish that's both satisfying and inclusive.

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened almond or soy)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup flour (whole wheat or gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if necessary)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam the broccoli until just tender, then set aside.
3. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, nutritional yeast, flour, oil, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
4. Mix the broccoli with the sauce, then pour into a casserole dish.
5. Top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden.

⚠️ Note: Ensure your flour and breadcrumbs are gluten-free if avoiding gluten.

4. Broccoli and Quinoa Casserole

Looking for something a bit lighter? This casserole incorporates quinoa for an additional boost of protein and fiber.

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can cream of celery soup
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package directions, using either water or vegetable broth for extra flavor.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, cream of celery soup, sour cream, green onions, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the top with cheese.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Crustless Broccoli and Egg Casserole

This recipe is a wonderful way to start your day or serve as a light dinner, providing all the comfort of a casserole with the health benefits of broccoli and eggs.

• 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cheese, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
3. Add the broccoli to a greased baking dish, then pour the egg mixture over it.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the top is slightly golden.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

In closing, these broccoli casserole recipes offer a versatile approach to enjoying this nutritious vegetable. Whether you’re after the creaminess of cheese, the heartiness of chicken, the lightness of vegan options, or the nutrient-rich combination of quinoa, there’s a casserole for every taste and dietary need. These dishes not only make for a delightful meal but also incorporate broccoli in a way that pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Experiment with these recipes, tweak them to your liking, and embrace the culinary journey that each one offers.

Can I prepare these casseroles ahead of time?

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Yes, most of these casseroles can be prepared ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Keep in mind the cheese might not be as crispy on top if reheating, but the flavor remains excellent.

How can I make the casseroles less creamy or cheesy?

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Reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with a lighter cheese like mozzarella. For creaminess, use a vegetable or chicken broth instead of cream-based soups or reduce the amount of milk/cream used.

Can I freeze these casseroles?

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Yes, most casseroles can be frozen before baking. Wrap tightly, freeze, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Note that the texture might be slightly different, especially if it contains cheese or dairy.