Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Paula Deen’s creamy broccoli mushroom bake! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and the flavors just dance together in the most delightful way. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; everyone was raving about it and I couldn’t keep a straight face. You see, it’s not just about the broccoli and mushrooms—it’s that luscious sour cream and cheddar cheese that bring everything together, making it so comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up! Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this creamy broccoli mushroom bake is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on your table again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting that golden, bubbly top!
- While the oven heats up, grab a large bowl and toss in those fresh broccoli florets and sliced mushrooms. I love using fresh veggies, but if you’ve got frozen on hand, that works too!
- Now, add in the full-fat sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Oh, the smell is already heavenly!
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your moment to adjust the flavors to your liking!
- Next, transfer that creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish, but whatever you have will work.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the plain breadcrumbs with the melted unsalted butter. This will create a lovely, crunchy topping.
- Sprinkle that breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of your creamy bake. Don’t hold back!
- Finally, pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- The creamy texture is downright irresistible; it’s like a velvety dream on your palate.
- Flavor-packed with broccoli, mushrooms, and a cheesy blend that everyone loves, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Great as a side dish for holiday meals, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner.
- It’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it without any fuss.
- This creamy broccoli mushroom bake can be made ahead of time, saving you stress in the kitchen.
- Versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes—from roasted meats to pasta!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your creamy broccoli mushroom bake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to help you succeed:
- Sauté the mushrooms: If you want to deepen the flavor, try sautéing the sliced mushrooms in a bit of butter before adding them to the mix. It enhances their rich, earthy taste!
- Fresh vs. frozen: Don’t stress if you can’t find fresh broccoli. Frozen works just as well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
- Cheese choices: Feel free to mix things up with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella and parmesan can add a nice twist, or even a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.
- Breadcrumb topping: For an extra crunch, consider adding some grated parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture or even some herbs like thyme or oregano for a burst of flavor.
- Watch the bake time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your dish as it bakes. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Always taste and adjust your salt and pepper before baking. This step is key to making those flavors pop!
- Make it ahead: If you’re prepping for a big meal, you can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a creamy broccoli mushroom bake pro in no time. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up Paula Deen’s creamy broccoli mushroom bake! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Mix in different veggies: Try adding some chopped bell peppers, cauliflower, or even spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and color. The more, the merrier!
- Cheese swaps: Want to change up the flavor? Use a blend of gouda and mozzarella for a smoky, gooey texture, or crumbled feta for a tangy twist. Experiment with what you love!
- Add some protein: If you want to make it heartier, toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for a delicious main dish option. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!
- Spice it up: For a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. You could also add a dash of garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor punch.
- Herb infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish! Try adding chopped parsley, dill, or thyme to the creamy mixture before baking for that fresh garden taste.
- Gluten-free option: Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or even almond flour for a delicious, gluten-free topping without sacrificing flavor.
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and make this creamy broccoli mushroom bake your own. I can’t wait to hear what delicious combinations you come up with!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness in Paula Deen’s creamy broccoli mushroom bake! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the broccoli and mushrooms. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect in each serving:
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 8g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But one thing’s for sure—this creamy bake is a wholesome side dish that balances comfort and nutrition beautifully. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite without a hint of guilt!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers from your creamy broccoli mushroom bake! I promise you won’t want to waste a single bite. Here’s how to store and reheat it so it tastes just as good as the first time around.
First things first, once your bake has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Glass containers are my favorite because they don’t retain odors and are easy to clean, but any airtight option will do. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep that creamy goodness fresh!
Store your container in the refrigerator, where your creamy broccoli mushroom bake will stay good for about 3-4 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Now, when it’s time to enjoy those leftovers again, you have a couple of options for reheating. If you’re reheating from the fridge, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your creamy bake in a baking dish (if it’s not already), cover it with foil to prevent the top from getting too brown, and heat it for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s warmed through and bubbly. Wow, your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
If you’re reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first. Then, follow the same reheating instructions as above. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick fix, just be sure to cover it to keep moisture in and stir halfway through for even heating.
With these storage and reheating tips, I guarantee your creamy broccoli mushroom bake will remain just as creamy and delicious as when it first came out of the oven! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in this creamy broccoli mushroom bake. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mix. It’ll still taste delicious!
How long can I store leftovers? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, feel free to freeze the bake! Just wrap it well and it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the creamy mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble it in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and bake it when you’re ready. It’s a great way to save time!
How can I make it spicier? If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick!
What should I serve with this dish? This creamy broccoli mushroom bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Try it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as a hearty side for pasta. It’s versatile and delicious!
Print
Paula Deen’s Creamy Broccoli Mushroom Bake: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy broccoli mushroom bake that is easy to prepare and delicious to eat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli and mushrooms.
- Add sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sauté the mushrooms before adding them to the mixture.
- Feel free to use fresh or frozen broccoli.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed.
- 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: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: paula deens creamy broccoli mushroom bake
