A Broccoli Casserole Kids and Adults Will Love

Eating broccoli on a regular basis is very healthy for you, but most kids and adults do not like or eat broccoli. Why eat something that looks like a tree or small bush when you can enjoy a quick microwavable snack, or run out to your favorite fast food place?

Parents need to set the example for their children, and it is worth the effort.

Cooking fresh vegetables for the family can improve overall health. Broccoli nutrition facts.

Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and it is low in carbohydrates. Green plants have no fat content. Broccoli casserole tastes great, is easy to make, and if you have kids they will enjoy helping make this healthy treat.

What you will need: 1 fresh bunch of broccoli, or 2 boxes of chopped frozen broccoli; 1 can of cream of mushroom soup; ½ cup of mayonnaise; 1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onions.

For a nice crunchy topping that kids will love: 1 stack of low sodium Ritz crackers; ½ stick of butter or margarine melted.

If you are using fresh broccoli, wash thoroughly, remove leaves, chop and cook until tender. You can boil or steam your broccoli, the choice is yours. If you prefer the chopped frozen broccoli cook until tender. When your broccoli is tender, strain, and set aside for now.

In a large bowl combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, egg (beaten), and chopped onions. Mix well.

At this point you have a choice, you can add the broccoli to the mix and stir, or if you prefer a smooth version of this broccoli casserole use a blender to puree the cooked broccoli. Add a little water while blending as needed. Add your broccoli puree to the mix and stir well to combine the ingredients.

The puree style is great for small children, and anyone on a puree diet.

We are almost finished with the preparation. Spread your mixture into a 13x9" baking dish, and set it aside while you make your quick crunchy topping.

Children love to crumble up the crackers in a bowl while you melt the butter. Making meals together is a great way to spend quality time with the kids too. Okay, add the melted butter to the cracker crumbs and gently mix with a spoon.

You and the kids can sprinkle the topping onto your broccoli mixture together.

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven (350⁰), and bake for approximately 30 to 40 minutes; or until the topping is brown and crisp. (makes about 6 to 8 servings)

Let cool, then dig in and enjoy eating your broccoli casserole!

Tips:

Onions are optional

You can use any type of cheese

Add chopped cooked chicken

Use low fat mayonnaise.

Learn more about the benefits of eating broccoli. The following links are a great place to start.

Broccoli reduces colon cancer susceptibility

Broccoli and Breast Cancer

Broccoli and Our Aging Immune System