Description
This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a warm, creamy, and wholesome dish combining tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich cheesy sauce. Ideal for cozy dinners, it offers comfort in every bite, quick preparation, and kid-friendly flavors. Perfect as a main or side, it’s versatile, easy to adapt, and tastes even better as leftovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Base
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old/cooked and cooled)
Cheese and Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Topping (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers, panko, or nuts for variation)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until bright green and just tender, ensuring they stay crisp-tender and keep their vibrant color.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom or chicken soup, milk or cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Rice and Broccoli: Add the cooked rice and steamed broccoli to the sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together to coat evenly with the cheesy sauce without breaking up the broccoli too much.
- Transfer and Top: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to set up perfectly.
Notes
- Use day-old or cooled rice for the best texture; freshly cooked rice can become mushy.
- Steam broccoli just until fork-tender to maintain color and avoid sogginess.
- Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for creamier cheese pull.
- Prepare ahead by assembling, covering, and refrigerating before baking.
- Use a ceramic or glass casserole dish for even heat distribution and a nicely browned crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: broccoli rice casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, easy dinner, family-friendly, make ahead, gluten free option