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–+ servings
Broccoli Casserole
Broccoli Casserole is a nostalgic favorite in American households, particularly in the Midwest and Southern regions. Popularized in the 1950s and 60s during the rise of convenience cooking, this dish combines pantry staples like canned soup and instant rice to create a creamy, satisfying meal. The addition of Cheez Whiz, a product launched in 1953, gives the casserole a uniquely rich flavor. Often served at potlucks and family gatherings, it symbolizes the era’s love for hearty, one-dish meals that are quick to prepare and comforting to eat. It remains a cherished classic that continues to bring families together around the dinner table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup instant rice (cooked)
  • 1 pkg frozen broccoli (cooked, chopped finely)
  • 1 jar Cheez Whiz (small)
  • 1 can mushroom soup
  • ½ cup celery
  • ½ cup onions (for sautéing)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook and Prepare Ingredients

  • Cook 1 cup instant rice according to package instructions.
  • Cook the frozen broccoli until tender.
  • Chop the onion and celery.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

  • Sauté ½ cup chopped celery and ½ cup chopped onion in a small amount of butter or oil until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Combine the Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, chopped raw onion, sautéed celery and onion, Cheez Whiz, and mushroom soup.
  • Stir everything together while the mixture is still hot to blend the Cheez Whiz smoothly.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  • Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F to 350°F for about 30–35 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.

Tips

  • Substitute fresh broccoli for frozen for extra texture.
  • Add shredded chicken for a protein-rich main dish.
  • Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
  • Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a different flavor.
  • Make it vegetarian by ensuring the soup and cheese are meat-free.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 730mgPotassium: 260mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1mg
Keyword baked casserole, baked side dish, beef cheese, Broccoli, easy, potluck, vintage recipes
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