A Perfect “Special Occasion” Broccoli Casserole

Do you have some casserole recipes that are simply remembered for “special occasions”? This broccoli casserole is a family favorite that we always use for special occasions. Don’t get me wrong–it’s on my table at other times, but memories of having my mother in law prepare this, simply place this broccoli casserole in the “special occasion” category.

Often for special dinners to celebrate Christmas, birthdays, or Easter, this recipe would grace the table for large family gatherings.

This is my youngest son’s absolute favorite requested recipe, so when we are at his home or together at ours, it is added to the menu.

So, why broccoli casserole?

Because this one is delicious!

We are southern people you know. The ones who always had casseroles on the table of every ingredient and mixture.

Hash brown potato casserole is another one of those that those at my table would NOT be happy if it weren’t served…for a brunch, Christmas dinner, summer celebration or Thanksgiving.

This broccoli casserole–

It’s only difference from its potato casserole cousin is that we never serve this one for brunch!

I have no clue where Annie Mae, my mother in law, found this one; but, it’s not going away any time soon.

Yes, it has more calories than needed, but it has been added to my WW app to track it. Why? Because it’s a necessity.

My husband’s allergy to raw fruits and vegetables means that MY broccoli will be cooked more than yours. No crunch allowed in the mixture before it goes in to bake.

Can you imagine no raw fruits and vegetables in your life? or stir fry? No salads or apples or watermelon on the menu for my sweet husband. It’s been a way of life since I have known him, but benadryl is always on hand in case an allergy reaction arises.

Now on to the recipe!

Are you ready?

Begin by cutting your broccoli into florets and adding them to boiling salted water.

For those who have no allergy issue, cook those florets until they are bright green and softened and then drain.

Mix together the soup, mayo, lemon juice, grated cheese, diced pimentos, and broccoli.

Next, pour into a greased casserole dish, top with cheez it crumbs and pecans and place into a preheated oven for 45 minutes until bubbly and beginning to golden.

Bubbly, fresh out of the oven.

This broccoli casserole is great with grilled entrees in the summer, a wonderful ham in the winter or even turkey at Thanksgiving.

Many birthday celebrations have this one on the menu.

Then there are just times that my husband requests it.

I always oblige. No refusal from me.

I think the beauty of this one is the brightness added to the mixture with the lemon juice added that gives it a wonderful flavor.

My husband will scoot the pecans off of his serving to me and I never refuse them.

Happy Casseroling, friends!

I hope that you will find the perfect gathering to add this to your table. I think your guests will have a new favorite if you do.

If you need other great sides for your table, here you go:

• Green Bean Bundles
• Breaded Tomatoes
• Dressing
• Zucchini Gratin
• Potato Salad

I hope that you will enjoy adding this recipe to your files or pinning it on Pinterest.

If only your feet could be under my table to share this one with you! Oh, what great conversations and laughter around that table we would have.

Thanks for joining me, dear friends. I am truly thankful you are following along on this journey.