Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Broccoli and Velveeta Cheese Casserole recipe is a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck contribution. It’s a simple recipe, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is a great example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly quick to prepare. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesy goodness!)
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
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Prep the Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside. Don't overcook the broccoli; you want it to retain some texture.
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Sauté the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, sautéed onions, cubed Velveeta cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese now.
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Bake the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy!: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish!
Tips for the Best Broccoli and Velveeta Casserole:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and less appealing. Aim for tender-crisp florets.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli provides the best flavor and texture.
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a well-rounded dinner.
Variations:
- Add some protein: Include cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for a heartier casserole.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and less cheese.
- Add different veggies: Experiment with other vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Broccoli and Velveeta Cheese Casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a simple solution for healthy meals, a perfect quick dinner idea, and a testament to the joys of homemade cooking. Enjoy this easy recipe, and don't hesitate to share your culinary creations with us! We’d love to see your delicious versions of this classic dish.