There’s just something about creamy casseroles that wrap you up in warmth and comfort, isn’t there? They’re the ultimate cozy food, perfect for family gatherings or a chilly weeknight dinner. One of my all-time favorites is Paula Deen’s broccoli casserole, which brings that southern charm right into your kitchen. It’s rich, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli that makes you feel good about indulging! Trust me, every bite feels like a hug from a loved one. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy days. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Paula Deen broccoli casserole!
Ingredients for Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this cheesy delight! Here’s what you’ll need to make your Paula Deen broccoli casserole irresistibly creamy and oh-so-satisfying:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re nice and tender!)
- 1 cup sour cream (for that creamy goodness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the more, the merrier!)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (yes, it adds a special touch)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice (this makes it hearty and filling)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped (for that lovely aromatic flavor)
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers (I like to use buttery ones for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (because butter makes everything better!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—season it just right!)
(Tip: You can adjust the amount of cheese or add more veggies if you like! Just have fun with it!)
How to Prepare Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole
Alright, let’s get cookin’! Making Paula Deen’s broccoli casserole is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to impress your family in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that beautiful bubbly top.
- Next, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook your broccoli florets until they’re just tender—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You want them bright green and not mushy! Once done, drain them well and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole, so make sure it’s mixed thoroughly!
- Now, add in your cooked rice, chopped onion, and those tender broccoli florets. Give it a gentle stir to combine, but be careful not to break up the broccoli too much.
- Season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really make it your own—don’t skimp on flavor!
- Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. You want each bite to be filled with that deliciousness!
- To finish it off, sprinkle the crushed crackers on top and drizzle with melted butter. This will create a crunchy, golden layer that’s simply irresistible!
- Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The smell will be absolutely heavenly, trust me!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, dig in and enjoy your creamy, comforting Paula Deen broccoli casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Paula Deen broccoli casserole is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll be head over heels for it:
- Creamy Texture: With a luscious blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheese, every bite is a rich, creamy dream come true!
- Easy to Prepare: It’s a straightforward recipe that comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy goodness! It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by adding meats, different cheeses, or even other vegetables to suit your family’s tastes!
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, making entertaining a breeze!
- Comfort Food Classic: This casserole embodies that warm, homey feeling we all crave, perfect for cozy nights in or festive family dinners.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen! You’ll find yourself making it again and again, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success with Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole
To make sure your Paula Deen broccoli casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want your broccoli to be tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp. Cook it just until bright green and tender, about 3-5 minutes. This keeps it from turning mushy in the casserole!
- Mix Ingredients Gently: When combining the broccoli with the creamy mixture, stir gently to avoid breaking the florets too much. You want those beautiful pieces to shine through!
- Taste as You Go: Don’t be shy—season with salt and pepper, but taste your mixture before baking. You might want to adjust the seasoning a bit to your liking!
- Butter the Baking Dish: Make sure to grease your baking dish well. This will help with easy serving and cleanup, ensuring that your casserole doesn’t stick!
- Let it Rest: After baking, let your casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving much easier!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re set up for a delicious and satisfying casserole that everyone will love!
Variations of Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit with your Paula Deen broccoli casserole, you’ve got plenty of delicious options! Here are some fun ideas to customize this comforting dish:
- Chicken Addition: For a heartier meal, stir in some cooked, shredded chicken. It adds protein and makes this casserole even more satisfying!
- Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor!
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even cauliflower to boost the veggie content. They’ll blend beautifully with the broccoli!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture for a spicy surprise!
- Herbs and Seasonings: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. You can also sprinkle in some garlic powder for extra flavor depth!
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this casserole your own. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can lead to a new family favorite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Paula Deen broccoli casserole can be a lifesaver for busy days! To store, simply let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for later, you can also freeze it! Just wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and it’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. For best results, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions for a few minutes, but the oven will keep that glorious crispy topping intact!
Nutritional Information for Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for a serving of this delightful Paula Deen broccoli casserole. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Sugar: 2g
With a good dose of veggies and creamy goodness, it’s a dish you can enjoy without guilt! Perfect for those comfort food cravings!
FAQ About Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole
Got questions about this fabulous Paula Deen broccoli casserole? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you whip up this delicious dish:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in this casserole. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing, so your casserole doesn’t get too watery!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights or gatherings!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Look for that beautiful golden crust on top, and when you see the edges bubbling, it’s ready! A toothpick inserted should come out clean, indicating it’s heated through.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can use Greek yogurt or even cream cheese for a different flavor and texture—both will still keep it creamy!
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, your leftover Paula Deen broccoli casserole can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying!
Paula Deen Broccoli Casserole: 7 Creamy Comfort Bites
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole inspired by Paula Deen.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook broccoli until tender, then drain.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheese.
- Add cooked rice, onion, and broccoli to the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with crushed crackers and melted butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- For added flavor, use garlic powder.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator.
- Try adding cooked chicken for protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: paula deen broccoli casserole
