Sarah Brown
Broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the nutritious goodness of broccoli, all baked to perfection in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This classic recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it a perfect side dish for family dinners or potlucks. By using cream of mushroom soup as a base, the casserole achieves a rich and savory flavor with minimal effort, while the addition of broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant element. Whether you're looking to elevate your weeknight meals or impress guests, this broccoli casserole is a delicious and satisfying option that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, cheese (cheddar or Parmesan), butter |
| Optional Ingredients | Rice, breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, milk, spices (salt, pepper, paprika) |
| Cooking Time | 30-40 minutes (prep) + 25-30 minutes (baking) |
| Servings | 4-6 |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Cooking Method | Baking |
| Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Key Steps | Blanch broccoli, mix with soup and cheese, top with breadcrumbs, bake |
| Texture | Creamy, cheesy, with a crispy topping |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, umami, slightly earthy from mushrooms |
| Dietary Considerations | Not vegetarian (contains cream of mushroom soup with potential meat base) |
| Storage | Refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat in oven or microwave |
| Variations | Add protein (chicken, bacon), use cauliflower instead of broccoli |
| Serving Suggestions | Pair with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a side dish |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Ingredients Needed: List all essential ingredients for broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom
- Preparation Steps: Detailed steps for preparing and assembling the casserole dish
- Cooking Time & Temp: Optimal oven settings for baking the casserole perfectly
- Cheese Topping Tips: Best cheese options and techniques for a crispy, golden top
- Serving Suggestions: Pairing ideas and tips for serving the casserole as a meal
Ingredients Needed: List all essential ingredients for broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom
To create a delicious broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom, you’ll need a combination of fresh vegetables, creamy soups, cheese, and a crunchy topping. The essential ingredients are carefully selected to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Start with fresh broccoli florets, the star of the dish, which provide a vibrant color and a slightly crisp texture even after baking. Opt for about 4 to 5 cups of chopped broccoli, either fresh or thawed if using frozen, ensuring it’s not overly watery to maintain the casserole’s consistency.
Next, cream of mushroom soup is the backbone of this recipe, adding richness and a savory base. One 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup is typically sufficient, though some recipes call for two cans for a creamier result. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can substitute it with a DIY version using mushrooms, butter, flour, and broth, but the canned variety is convenient and works well.
Cheese is another critical component, contributing to the casserole’s creamy texture and umami flavor. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese is a popular choice, with 1 to 1.5 cups needed to ensure a gooey, melted layer throughout the dish. Some recipes also incorporate Parmesan cheese for an extra tangy kick, using about ¼ cup sprinkled on top or mixed in.
For the casserole’s binding agent, mayonnaise or sour cream is often added to enhance creaminess and help meld the ingredients together. Approximately ½ cup of either ingredient works well, though you can adjust based on personal preference. Additionally, milk (around ¼ cup) is sometimes included to thin the mixture slightly, ensuring it’s not too thick.
Finally, the topping is key for adding texture and visual appeal. Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter are commonly used, requiring about 1 cup of crackers and ¼ cup of butter. Some recipes also include chopped onions or garlic for added flavor, though these are optional. With these ingredients, you’ll have everything needed to assemble a comforting and flavorful broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom.
Delicious Spinach and Mushroom Recipes: Creative Meal Ideas to Try
You may want to see also
Preparation Steps: Detailed steps for preparing and assembling the casserole dish
To begin preparing your broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready when your casserole is assembled. Next, gather and prepare your ingredients. Chop 2-3 cups of fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Finely chop one small onion and mince two cloves of garlic. These aromatics will add depth to your dish. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté the onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
While the onions and garlic are cooking, prepare the cream of mushroom sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking it for about 2 minutes until it turns golden. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added flavor. Remove the sauce from heat and set it aside.
Now, it’s time to blanch the broccoli. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the broccoli well and set it aside. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Reserve about ½ cup of this cheese mixture for topping the casserole.
Assemble the casserole by layering the ingredients in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Start with half of the blanched broccoli, followed by half of the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour half of the cream of mushroom sauce evenly over this layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining broccoli, onions, garlic, and sauce. Sprinkle the reserved cheese mixture over the top. For added crunch, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and scatter this mixture over the cheese.
Finally, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This ensures the layers set and makes it easier to slice. Your broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom is now ready to enjoy!
Creamy Mushroom Dirty Rice: Easy Southern Comfort Food Recipe
You may want to see also
Cooking Time & Temp: Optimal oven settings for baking the casserole perfectly
When preparing a broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom, achieving the perfect bake is crucial for a creamy, bubbly, and golden-brown dish. The optimal oven settings play a significant role in ensuring the casserole cooks evenly and develops a desirable texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), which is the most commonly recommended temperature for this type of casserole. This temperature allows the ingredients to cook through without drying out the broccoli or burning the topping. Preheating is essential, as it ensures the casserole begins cooking immediately and evenly from the start.
The cooking time for a broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom typically ranges from 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the recipe and the thickness of the casserole. For a standard 9x13-inch baking dish, 35 minutes is often the sweet spot. However, if your casserole is particularly thick or you’ve added extra ingredients like rice or chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time by 5 to 10 minutes. To check for doneness, look for a bubbling edge and a lightly browned top. Insert a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out hot, the dish is ready.
If your recipe includes a crumbly or cheesy topping, you may want to adjust the oven settings slightly for the last few minutes of baking. After the initial 30 minutes at 350°F, increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the final 5 to 10 minutes. This higher temperature helps the topping brown beautifully without overcooking the rest of the casserole. Keep a close eye on it during this time to prevent burning.
For those using a convection oven, reduce the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) to account for the faster air circulation. Bake the casserole at 325°F (160°C) for the first 30 minutes, then increase to 350°F (175°C) for the final browning stage. Convection ovens can sometimes dry out casseroles, so covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the cooking time can help retain moisture.
Finally, allowing the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven is a crucial step often overlooked. This resting period lets the ingredients set, making the casserole easier to serve and ensuring it holds its shape. Use this time to set the table or prepare a side dish. With these precise oven settings and timing, your broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom will emerge perfectly cooked, creamy, and irresistible.
Can Mushrooms Harm Dogs? Understanding Risks and Symptoms of Poisoning
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cheese Topping Tips: Best cheese options and techniques for a crispy, golden top
When crafting the perfect cheese topping for your broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom, selecting the right cheese is paramount. Opt for cheeses that melt well and develop a crispy, golden crust. Cheddar is a classic choice due to its sharp flavor and ability to brown beautifully. Parmesan, with its low moisture content, adds a nutty, crispy texture when sprinkled on top. A blend of mozzarella and Gruyère can also work wonders, as mozzarella melts smoothly while Gruyère contributes a rich, golden finish. Avoid high-moisture cheeses like fresh mozzarella or goat cheese, as they tend to make the topping soggy instead of crispy.
The technique you use to apply the cheese topping significantly impacts the final result. For an even, crispy layer, grate the cheese finely and distribute it uniformly across the casserole. If you prefer a more textured top, mix shredded cheese with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of melted butter before sprinkling it over the dish. Another pro tip is to broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to ensure it turns golden without burning. This method guarantees a bubbling, crispy cheese layer that contrasts perfectly with the creamy mushroom and broccoli base.
Layering is another key technique to achieve a flawless cheese topping. Start by covering the broccoli and cream of mushroom mixture with a thin layer of cheese, then add your crispy topping mixture (breadcrumbs, butter, and cheese) on top. This ensures the cheese melts evenly and adheres to the casserole while the top layer crisps up. If using multiple cheeses, blend them together before applying to create a harmonious flavor profile and consistent texture.
Temperature control is crucial for achieving the ideal cheese topping. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to allow the casserole to cook through without burning the cheese. If you’re broiling, ensure your oven rack is positioned in the upper third of the oven to promote even browning. Always let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven; this allows the cheese to set and prevents it from sliding off when served.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of seasoning your cheese topping. A pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper sprinkled over the cheese adds depth and enhances the overall flavor. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or chives after baking. These small additions elevate your broccoli casserole, making the cheese topping not just crispy and golden, but also packed with flavor. With the right cheese choices and techniques, your casserole will boast a topping that’s as irresistible as it is beautiful.
Designing a Floating Mushroom Biome: Optimal Size for Realism and Functionality
You may want to see also
Serving Suggestions: Pairing ideas and tips for serving the casserole as a meal
When serving broccoli casserole with cream of mushroom as a meal, consider pairing it with a protein to create a balanced and satisfying dish. Grilled or baked chicken breasts are an excellent choice, as their mild flavor complements the creamy and savory casserole without overpowering it. For a heartier option, try serving the casserole alongside roasted turkey or ham. If you prefer a vegetarian approach, add a side of crispy tofu or a hearty bean salad to ensure the meal is filling and protein-rich. The key is to choose a protein that enhances the casserole’s flavors while adding nutritional value.
To round out the meal, include a fresh side dish that contrasts the richness of the casserole. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing works wonders, as the acidity helps cut through the creaminess of the dish. Alternatively, steamed or sautéed green beans, asparagus, or carrots add a pop of color and a crisp texture. For a more indulgent option, consider garlic butter sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides not only balance the meal but also ensure a variety of textures and flavors on the plate.
Bread is another great addition to the meal, as it pairs well with the creamy sauce of the casserole. Serve a slice of crusty French bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls on the side for soaking up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, opt for a whole grain or multigrain bread to add fiber and nutrients. If you’re feeling creative, try a cornbread or biscuit for a Southern-inspired twist that complements the casserole’s comfort food appeal.
When plating the meal, consider presentation to make it visually appealing. Place a generous portion of the broccoli casserole in the center of the plate and arrange the protein and side dishes around it. Garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a light dusting of paprika for added color. If serving family-style, place the casserole in a large baking dish and arrange the sides in separate bowls or platters, allowing guests to serve themselves. This not only looks inviting but also encourages a communal dining experience.
Finally, think about beverages that pair well with the meal. For a casual dinner, iced tea or lemonade complements the creamy casserole nicely. If you’re serving the dish as part of a more formal meal, a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the mushroom and broccoli flavors. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is refreshing. The goal is to choose a beverage that enhances the overall dining experience without overwhelming the flavors of the casserole.
Crafting La Cie Mushrooms: A Polymer Clay Tutorial Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The main ingredients include broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix), cooked rice, diced onions, mayonnaise, butter, and breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for the topping.
Steam or boil the broccoli florets until they are tender but still slightly crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Drain well to remove excess moisture before adding to the casserole mixture.
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
