Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

It’s funny how some of the simplest dishes become family staples, isn’t it? For us, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is one of those recipes. It started as a way to get my kids to eat more broccoli (sneaky, I know!), but it quickly evolved into a dish everyone genuinely loves. Even my picky teenager, who usually eyes anything green with suspicion, asks for seconds of this casserole. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy comfort and a bit of wholesome goodness from the broccoli. Honestly, it’s become our go-to for potlucks, weeknight dinners, and even those days when we just crave something warm and satisfying. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free meal that’s both comforting and surprisingly versatile, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to add this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole to your regular rotation – I promise, your family will thank you!

Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, these provide the vegetable element and a lovely green color. About 6 cups chopped.
• Cooked Rice: Long-grain white rice, brown rice, or even leftover rice works perfectly as the base. Approximately 3 cups cooked.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but mild or a blend can also be used for the cheesy goodness. About 2 cups shredded.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Provides creaminess and flavor to the sauce base. One 10.75-ounce can.
• Milk: Adds moisture and thins out the soup for a perfect sauce consistency. About ½ cup.
• Butter: Used for sautéing and adding richness to the casserole. About 2 tablespoons.
• Onion: Adds savory depth of flavor to the casserole base. About ½ cup finely chopped.
• Garlic: Enhances the flavor profile with its pungent aroma. About 2 cloves minced.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all ingredients. To taste.
• Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and balances the richness. To taste.
• Paprika: Optional, but adds a subtle smoky flavor and color. About ¼ teaspoon.
• Breadcrumbs (Optional): Panko or regular breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. About ½ cup (if using).
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Grated Parmesan cheese for extra cheesy flavor on top. About ¼ cup (if using).

Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
2. Cook Rice: Prepare the rice according to package directions. You can use a rice cooker, stovetop method, or even microwaveable rice pouches for convenience. Set aside once cooked. If using leftover rice, ensure it’s heated through or at room temperature.
3. Steam or Blanch Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets. Steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Steaming preserves more nutrients, but blanching in boiling water works quickly. If using frozen broccoli, you can steam it directly from frozen or thaw it slightly and drain excess water. Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should still have a slight bite.
4. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Sautéing these aromatics enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
5. Prepare Cheese Sauce Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. This creates the creamy base for your casserole sauce.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the soup mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix everything together gently until well combined, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the broccoli and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Add Topping (Optional): If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This creates a lovely golden and crispy crust. You can also just add extra shredded cheddar on top if you prefer a cheesier crust without breadcrumbs.
9. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the topping (if used) is golden brown. The cheese should be melted and gooey.
10. Let Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole (Per Serving)

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Servings Per Recipe: 8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving
• Fat: 15-20 grams

Preparation Time for Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a relatively quick and easy dish to prepare. The prep time involves chopping vegetables, cooking rice, and sautéing onions and garlic. The cook time is mainly for baking in the oven until heated through and bubbly, making it a great option for weeknight meals or when you need a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

This versatile casserole can be served in a variety of ways, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Main Dish:
  • Serve generous portions of the casserole as a satisfying vegetarian main course. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, especially for a lighter meal.
  • Pair it with a fresh side salad for a balanced and complete dinner. A simple green salad with vinaigrette or a Caesar salad complements the richness of the casserole.
• As a Side Dish:
  • Serve smaller portions as a comforting side dish alongside grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or tofu. It complements a variety of proteins beautifully.
  • It’s a great side for holiday meals, potlucks, and family gatherings.
• Garnish Ideas:
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness.
  • A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang.
  • A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Extra shredded cheddar cheese melted on top for an even cheesier experience.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Serve hot straight from the oven for the best cheesy, gooey texture.
  • It can also be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, though the cheese will be less melted.

Additional Tips for the Best Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

To elevate your Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole and ensure it’s a guaranteed hit, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Whether you’re steaming or blanching, aim for tender-crisp broccoli. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and lose its vibrant green color in the casserole. It will continue to cook in the oven, so slightly undercooking it initially is ideal.
2. Use Quality Cheese: The cheese is a star ingredient in this casserole, so using good quality cheddar makes a big difference. Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor that cuts through the creaminess. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
3. Toast Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch: If using breadcrumbs for the topping, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet with a bit of butter or olive oil until golden brown before sprinkling them on the casserole. This adds extra flavor and a more satisfying crunch.
4. Customize with Spices and Herbs: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor. A pinch of nutmeg enhances the creamy cheese sauce, while a dash of onion powder or garlic powder can boost the savory notes. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be added to the casserole mixture for a more aromatic dish.
5. Add a Layer of Flavor with Bacon (Optional, but not for vegetarian): While the recipe is vegetarian-focused, for those who enjoy bacon, a layer of cooked and crumbled bacon added to the casserole mixture or sprinkled on top can add a smoky and salty dimension. However, for a strictly vegetarian version, skip the bacon.
6. Make it Ahead of Time: This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You might need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
7. Freeze for Future Meals: Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or bake directly from frozen (covered with foil initially, then uncovered for the last 20 minutes) at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-90 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
8. Vary the Vegetables: While broccoli is the star, you can easily add or substitute other vegetables to customize this casserole. Cauliflower, peas, carrots, or even spinach can be added for variety. Just ensure they are cooked or blanched beforehand to the right tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Here are some common questions and answers to help you make the perfect Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole:

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, absolutely! Frozen broccoli florets are a convenient option and work perfectly in this casserole. You can steam them directly from frozen or thaw them slightly and drain any excess water before adding them to the recipe. Ensure they are cooked to tender-crisp.

Q2: Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
A: Yes, if you prefer or don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup (for non-vegetarian), or even cream of cheddar soup for an extra cheesy flavor. You can also make your own creamy white sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings for a healthier alternative.

Q3: What kind of rice is best for this casserole?
A: Long-grain white rice is commonly used and works well. However, you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Leftover cooked rice of any kind is also perfect for this recipe, making it a great way to use up leftovers.

Q4: Can I make this casserole dairy-free or vegan?
A: Yes, with some substitutions. You can use plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk), vegan cream of mushroom soup (many brands are available), and vegan cheddar cheese shreds. Ensure your breadcrumbs (if using) are also vegan. This makes a delicious and inclusive dairy-free and vegan version.

Q5: How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
A: If you find your casserole is too dry, it could be due to overcooking or not enough liquid. Ensure you are using enough milk in the sauce base. Also, avoid overbaking the casserole. It’s ready when heated through and bubbly, and the cheese is melted. If it starts to look dry during baking, you can loosely cover it with foil.

Q6: Can I add protein to this casserole to make it a more complete meal?
A: Yes, you can add protein. Cooked chicken, diced ham (for non-vegetarian), or cooked lentils or chickpeas (for vegetarian protein) can be added to the casserole mixture. Ensure any added protein is already cooked before incorporating it into the casserole.

Q7: How long does leftover Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through. It’s best to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating if it seems a bit dry.

Q8: Can I make individual servings of this casserole?
A: Yes, you can easily make individual servings in ramekins or small oven-safe dishes. Simply divide the casserole mixture evenly among the dishes and bake as directed, adjusting the baking time slightly if needed (individual servings may cook faster). This is great for portion control or for serving at individual place settings.

Print