You know, some days just scream for the comfort of a cheesy, hearty casserole—like those unexpected rainy afternoons when you just want to curl up with a warm, satisfying dish. This broccoli cheese casserole with chicken and rice is like a cozy blanket, perfect for when you’re feeling nostalgic about grandma’s kitchen. Who would’ve thought that something so simple could feel like a small victory on a busy weeknight?
Steps
- Combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and egg in a mixing bowl until well blended.
- Stir in the frozen broccoli florets and grated Cheddar cheese, ensuring they are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Pour the prepared mixture into a baking dish that has been greased or lined.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
Ingredients
- 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 package of frozen broccoli florets
- Cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
FAQ
- Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for this casserole?
- Yes, you can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen. It’s recommended to steam the fresh broccoli before adding it to the mixture to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
- What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
- If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of onion or even jarred Alfredo sauce as a replacement. These alternatives will provide a different flavor but can still work well in the casserole.
- How should I store leftover broccoli cheese casserole?
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when ready to serve again.
- Can I add extra ingredients to the casserole?
- Absolutely! Some popular additions include red pepper, French-fried onions, and a topping of crackers mixed with butter. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like American or Velveeta for a unique flavor.
- What kind of cheese is best for this casserole?
- Grating your own Cheddar cheese is recommended for the best taste and texture. However, you can mix in other types of cheese like American or Velveeta if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Tips
- Consider adding your personal touch with extra ingredients like red pepper, French-fried onions, butter, or crackers to enhance the casserole’s flavor and texture. You can also sprinkle some crackers on top for added crunch.
- If you prefer using fresh broccoli instead of frozen, just steam it lightly first to ensure it cooks properly in the casserole.
- Don’t worry if you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand; you can substitute it with cream of onion or even Alfredo sauce for a delicious variation.
- Grate your own Cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese can often contain additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Equipment
- Cheese Casserole, here are some main pieces of equipment you might not have at home and might consider purchasing from a retailer like Amazon:
- Baking Dish – If you don’t already have a suitable baking dish for casseroles, you might need to acquire one.
- Cheese Grater – For grating your own Cheddar cheese, a good quality cheese grater is essential.
- Airtight Containers – For storing leftovers, you might need some airtight containers if you don’t already have them.
- Steamer Basket – If opting to use fresh broccoli as suggested by a community member, a steamer basket could be useful.
