Origin Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Popular in American Southern cuisine, this casserole became a potluck staple during the mid-20th century, often using pantry staples and canned soups.

What I Love About This Recipe

It’s simple to prepare, cheesy, cozy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether served during holidays or weeknight dinners, it adds a warm, nostalgic flavor to the table.

Also Read : Simple Veg Soup Recipes for Comfort Food Lovers

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Main Course, Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

A creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made with tender broccoli, melted cheese, and a crunchy topping—perfect as a hearty side dish or a simple vegetarian main.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)

• 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for topping)

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
• Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender. Drain well.
• In a bowl, mix cheddar cheese, cream cheese, soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Fold in the broccoli and mix until well-coated.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
• In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• You can mix in cooked rice, chicken, or quinoa to turn it into a hearty main dish.

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Origin Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad

Inspired by the traditional Caprese salad from Italy — which features tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil — this version folds those flavors into orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, for a heartier, picnic-ready dish.

What I Love About This Recipe

It’s light but satisfying, easy to make, and travels well. The pesto coats every piece of pasta, and the cherry tomatoes add bursts of sweetness a fresh, herby bite in every forkful.

Also Read : Mom’s Ice Cream Dessert

Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad

Recipe by RecipeWikki

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)

• ⅓–½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, to loosen pesto)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

• Optional: a drizzle of balsamic glaze for serving

Directions

• Cook orzo in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water.
• In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
• Stir in pesto and olive oil (if needed), mixing until everything is well coated.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Notes

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes for an extra savory twist.
• Great make-ahead option for barbecues or lunch meal prep.

The post Caprese Orzo Pesto Salad appeared first on RecipeWikki.

Origin Warm Broccoli Caesar Salad

The traditional Caesar salad originated in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s, created by chef Caesar Cardini. Over time, many variations have emerged, and replacing romaine lettuce with warm broccoli is a modern take that adds depth, flavor, and extra nutrition. This version is especially popular in contemporary American and European cuisine, where roasted vegetables have become a staple in salads.

What I Love About It:

I love how the warmth of the broccoli brings out its natural sweetness, making it blend seamlessly with the tangy, umami-rich Caesar dressing. The mix of textures—from the tender-crisp broccoli to the crunchy croutons and grated Parmesan—creates a satisfying bite every time. It’s a perfect balance of indulgent and healthy!

Also Read : Pavlova Christmas Trees Recipe

Warm Broccoli Caesar Salad

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

875

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

• ½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or almonds (optional, for crunch)

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
• Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until slightly crispy and tender.
• (Alternatively, you can steam the broccoli for a softer texture.)
• In a bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes.
• Transfer the warm broccoli to a large bowl.
• Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly.
• Add in croutons and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing gently.
• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Serve immediately while the broccoli is still warm.

Notes

• Experiment with kale or roasted Brussels sprouts for additional greens.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, use a plant-based Caesar dressing and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

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