Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole: 5 Comforting Memories You’ll Love

paula deen broccoli casserole

By:

Julia marin

Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: the *Paula Deen broccoli casserole*! This dish brings back so many warm memories of family gatherings, where the aroma of cheesy goodness filled the kitchen and everyone gathered around the table, ready to dig in. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-hearty, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in so many homes. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up! I can’t wait for you to try this casserole and make your own delicious memories!

paula deen broccoli casserole - detail 1

Ingredients List

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup crushed crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
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How to Prepare Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the casserole cook evenly and get that delicious, bubbly texture we all love. So, don’t skip this step—trust me, your casserole will thank you!

Steam the Broccoli

Next, let’s steam the broccoli! I usually bring a pot of water to a simmer and place a steamer basket over it. Toss in those beautiful fresh broccoli florets and steam them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender but still vibrant green. You want them to be just right—soft enough to mix in but still holding their shape for that lovely texture.

Mix the Ingredients

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and chopped onion. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s nice and uniform. You want every bite to have that cheesy, creamy goodness, so make sure it’s well blended!

Combine Broccoli and Mixture

Once your broccoli is perfectly steamed, it’s time to fold it into the cheese mixture. Gently stir in the broccoli until it’s fully coated in that creamy goodness. This is where the magic happens! Make sure not to break the florets too much; we want those lovely pieces to shine through in the casserole.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Now, carefully transfer the broccoli mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish for this recipe. Just scoop it in and spread it out evenly with your spatula. Take your time with this step—I’ve spilled my fair share of casseroles, and it’s no fun to clean up!

Prepare the Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are moistened. This topping adds a delightful crunch, so make sure it’s evenly coated! Then, sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture over the top of your casserole, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite has that satisfying crunch.

Bake the Casserole

Finally, pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and golden brown on top—oh, that’s the moment we all live for! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and get ready for some happy faces at the dinner table!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for each serving of this delicious *Paula Deen broccoli casserole*. Keep in mind these are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Sugar: 2g

This hearty casserole is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients from the broccoli. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying that cheesy goodness!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely, you can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have on hand! Just keep in mind that frozen broccoli tends to be a bit softer once cooked, so it might change the texture slightly. I recommend thawing it first and draining any excess water to prevent the casserole from getting soggy. It’ll still be delicious, I promise!

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, no worries! You can use cream of chicken soup for a similar creamy texture, or even a homemade white sauce if you’re feeling adventurous! Just note that using a different soup might alter the flavor a bit, but it can still be super tasty. You could also try a cream of celery soup for a slightly different twist!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Just let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can pop it in the microwave for a quick fix. It’s just as comforting the second time around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare—ready in just 45 minutes!
  • Hearty and satisfying, perfect as a side dish or even a main course.
  • Rich, creamy flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
  • Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great addition to any meal.
  • Uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Adaptable with different cheeses or add-ins to suit your taste.
  • Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners.

Tips for Success

To ensure your *Paula Deen broccoli casserole* turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips that I’ve learned from years of cooking (and a few mishaps along the way!).

  • Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: It’s crucial to steam the broccoli just until it’s tender but still bright green. Overcooking can make it mushy and lose that lovely texture we want in the casserole.
  • Mix Thoroughly: When combining the cheese mixture and broccoli, make sure everything is well mixed. You want that creamy goodness evenly distributed throughout so every bite is delicious!
  • Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. You’re aiming for a bubbly and golden top—if it’s still looking pale after 30 minutes, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
  • Let It Rest: After baking, let your casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes for cleaner slices, plus it gives you a moment to savor the delicious aroma!
  • Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick! Just remember that different cheeses can change the flavor and texture a bit.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients. Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese really elevate the flavor and make the casserole even more enjoyable!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a broccoli casserole that’s not just good, but absolutely unforgettable! Happy cooking!

Variations on Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your *Paula Deen broccoli casserole*! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:

  • Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or add some pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese brings its own unique taste, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
  • Extra Veggies: Sneak in some additional veggies! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even cauliflower can add great flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to steam them slightly before mixing them in.
  • Protein Boost: If you want to make this dish more filling, consider adding cooked chicken or ham. It turns this side dish into a hearty main course that everyone will love.
  • Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle in some garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of paprika for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also brighten up the dish and add a pop of color!
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the crushed crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. It’s a simple swap that keeps the crunch while accommodating dietary preferences.
  • Make it a Casserole Layer: Layer the broccoli mixture between sheets of pasta for a delicious twist, like a cheesy lasagna! Just make sure to add a little extra sauce to keep it moist.

These variations can help you create a casserole that suits your mood or the season. So, go ahead and get creative—your taste buds will thank you!

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paula deen broccoli casserole

Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole: 5 Comforting Memories You’ll Love


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole that is hearty and delicious.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup crushed crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Steam the broccoli until tender.
  3. In a bowl, mix the cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and onion.
  4. Add the steamed broccoli and stir until combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
  6. In another bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter.
  7. Spread the cracker mixture over the broccoli mixture.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli for best flavor.
  • Can substitute cream of chicken soup if desired.
  • Adjust cheese quantity to your preference.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: paula deen broccoli casserole, broccoli casserole, cheesy casserole

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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