Shoney’s Broccoli Casserole

This dish is favorite vegetable and cheese combination that can be made in 30 minutes.

Shoney’s Broccoli Casserole is a classic and beloved dish that has been a staple on the Shoney’s menu for many years. This comforting casserole features tender broccoli florets, creamy Velveeta cheese, and a delicious cracker topping that adds a delightful crunch to each bite. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a popular choice among diners of all ages.

The casserole starts with coarsely chopped broccoli florets, which are mixed with cooked rice, eggs, salt, and black pepper. The addition of eggs helps bind the ingredients together, creating a hearty and satisfying texture. To enhance the creaminess of the casserole, Velveeta cheese is melted with half-and-half to create a smooth and cheesy sauce that coats the broccoli and rice mixture.

Once the casserole is assembled, it is baked in the oven until it is hot and bubbly. Towards the end of the baking time, a topping of crushed Ritz crackers and shredded Cheddar cheese is added, giving the casserole a golden, crispy finish. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy topping is what makes this casserole truly special.

Shoney’s Broccoli Casserole is often served as a side dish, complementing a variety of main courses such as grilled chicken, steak, or roasted turkey. Its comforting flavors and familiar ingredients make it a popular choice for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals.

Whether you’re a fan of broccoli or simply enjoy a delicious cheesy casserole, Shoney’s Broccoli Casserole is sure to satisfy your taste buds. It’s a timeless and hearty dish that continues to bring comfort and joy to diners across the country.

SERVES: 6–8

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 eggs
• 6 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/4 pounds Velveeta cheese
• 3 cups half-and-half
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, lightly whip the eggs for approximately 20 seconds.
3. Add the coarsely chopped broccoli, cooked rice, salt, and black pepper to the eggs. Mix well to thoroughly incorporate the ingredients.
4. Dice the Velveeta cheese into 1/4-inch pieces. Place the cheese and half-and-half in a microwave-safe container, cover, and microwave for 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Add the melted cheese mixture to the ingredients in the mixing bowl. Blend well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed together.
5. Spray a medium baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Pour the casserole mixture into the greased baking dish.
7. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes of baking, top the casserole with crushed Ritz crackers and shredded Cheddar cheese.
9. Continue baking the casserole for an additional 5 minutes, or until the Cheddar cheese is melted and the Ritz crackers are browned.

VARIATIONS:

• Chicken and Broccoli Casserole: Add cooked and diced chicken to the casserole for a heartier and more substantial dish. The chicken adds protein and makes it a complete meal.
• Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: Use cooked white or brown rice instead of the regular rice in the recipe. The combination of cheese, broccoli, and rice creates a comforting and creamy casserole.
• Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole: Replace some of the broccoli with cauliflower florets for added flavor and texture. This variation offers a mix of two delicious vegetables.
• Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole: Skip the Velveeta cheese and use shredded cheddar cheese instead. The natural sharpness of cheddar cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the casserole.
• Broccoli Rice Casserole with Crispy Topping: Instead of Ritz crackers, use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. The added crunch complements the creamy texture of the casserole.
• Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Bacon: Incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon into the casserole for a smoky and savory twist. Bacon lovers will appreciate the extra flavor it brings.
• Gluten-Free Broccoli Casserole: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Vegan Broccoli Casserole: Replace the eggs, dairy-based cheese, and half-and-half with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cheese, almond or soy milk, and an egg replacer to make it suitable for a vegan diet.