Cracker crumbs for casserole topping
Cracker crumbs for casserole topping is a crunchy, golden-brown layer used to finish savory baked dishes, most commonly in American home cooking. It's typically made from crushed buttery round crackers (like Ritz), saltines, or panko, often mixed with melted butter or oil and sometimes seasonings. This topping adds texture and richness to casseroles like green bean, tuna, or chicken noodle.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This topping is primarily a source of refined carbohydrates and fat, with minimal protein. A typical serving provides a modest amount of calories, mainly from the crackers' starch and the added butter or oil.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbs | 14 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 230 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.1 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.2 mg |
| Folate | 25 mcg |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
| Phosphorus | 30 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Selenium | 6 mcg |
Per 1/4 cup (about 30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a hallmark of mid-20th century American comfort food and potluck cuisine, representing a practical way to add a satisfying crunch. Nutritionally, it's a classic example of a 'texture enhancer' that adds calories and fat without significantly contributing vitamins or minerals.
