Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Classic

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, especially when it’s packed with nutritious vegetables like broccoli. This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It’s a simple dish to make, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this casserole is all about ease and deliciousness. The creamy texture, the perfectly cooked rice, the vibrant green broccoli florets, and the sharp, melty cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it to your family, friends, or simply enjoying a comforting meal for yourself, this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe

This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole recipe isn’t just another casserole; it’s a culinary hug in a baking dish. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Simplicity: The recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Even novice cooks can master this dish with ease.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this single-dish marvel. From sautéing the onions to baking the casserole, it all happens in one pan and a baking dish!
• Deliciously Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – experiment with pepper jack, Gruyère, or even a blend of your favorites. You can also add other vegetables, such as diced carrots or peas, for added nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits!
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked for a future meal. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This is a fantastic way to stockpile healthy, delicious meals.
• Kid-Approved: This casserole is a guaranteed hit with children. The creamy cheese sauce and tender rice make it appealing, while the hidden broccoli adds a healthy boost.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it a delicious and economical meal option.

Why You Should Try This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole offers several compelling reasons to add it to your culinary repertoire:

• Nutrient-Rich: Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This casserole is a sneaky way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
• Comfort Food Reimagined: It elevates the classic comfort food experience by adding a healthy twist. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!
• Versatile Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with various main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled meats and even hearty soups.
• Perfect for Potlucks: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that travels well, making it the perfect dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings.
• Improves with Time: The flavors of this casserole actually deepen and meld together even better when it’s made ahead of time. It’s even more delicious the next day!
• Adaptable to Dietary Needs: With a few simple substitutions, you can adapt this recipe to meet various dietary needs (see tips and variations below).
• Satisfying and Filling: This casserole is hearty and filling, leaving you feeling satisfied without the heaviness of some other comfort foods.

Ingredients and Utensils for Your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients and having the appropriate tools on hand will ensure a smooth and successful cooking experience. Let’s get started!

Ingredients: A Detailed Breakdown

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing the onions and garlic. You can substitute with another neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a savory base flavor to the casserole. Use yellow or white onion, whichever you prefer.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent aroma and delicious taste. Use fresh garlic for the best results. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Long-Grain Rice (1 cup, uncooked): Provides the base for the casserole. Long-grain rice holds its shape well and absorbs the liquid nicely.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups): Adds flavor and moisture to the rice. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Frozen Chopped Broccoli (10 ounces, thawed and drained): Adds a healthy dose of vegetables and vibrant green color to the casserole. Make sure to thaw the broccoli completely and drain it well to prevent a watery casserole.
• Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.75 ounces): Creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce. For a lighter version, you can use a lower-sodium option or even make your own creamy mushroom sauce from scratch.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and helps to thin out the soup for a smoother texture. Use whole milk for the richest flavor, but 2% or skim milk will work, too.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Provides a sharp, classic cheese flavor. Use a good quality cheddar for the best results.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a milder, slightly nutty flavor that complements the cheddar. Feel free to substitute with your favorite melting cheese, such as Colby Jack, pepper jack, or Gruyère.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of spice and complexity. Adjust to your preference.

Utensils: Essential Tools for Success

• Large Skillet: For sautéing the onions, garlic, and cooking the rice.
• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: To bake the casserole. A lightly greased baking dish will prevent sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients in the skillet and casserole.
• Grater: If you are not using pre-shredded cheese.
• Oven Mitts or Pot Holders: To safely handle the hot baking dish.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Let’s embark on the culinary journey of creating this delightful casserole. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect result:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts perfectly. **Don’t skip this step!**
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the dish once baked. A little goes a long way.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5 minutes). **Don’t brown the onions; you want them softened, not caramelized.** Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This toasting step helps enhance the flavor of the rice and creates a slightly nutty taste. **Make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning.**
5. Cook the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. **Do not lift the lid during simmering.** This ensures even cooking.
6. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the thawed and drained broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the cheese is starting to melt.
7. Bake the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top. **Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.**
8. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole stand for 5-10 minutes after baking before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. **Serve warm and enjoy!**

Tips and Variations for Your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is incredibly versatile! Here are some tips and variations to customize your dish:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try Gruyère, pepper jack, Fontina, or a blend of your favorites. A sharp white cheddar is also an excellent choice.
• Add More Veggies: Include other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or corn for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Creamy Sauce Alternatives: For a healthier option, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade cheese sauce or a béchamel sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and vegan cheese alternatives.
• Make it a Meal Prep Marvel: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving. The flavors meld beautifully overnight in the fridge. You can also freeze it unbaked.
• Avoid a Watery Casserole: Make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli completely before adding it to the casserole. Also, ensure your rice is cooked thoroughly to absorb excess liquid.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

While a comfort food, this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole offers several nutritional benefits:

Note: Nutritional information is an approximation and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

A single serving (approximately 1/8 of the casserole) contains roughly:

• Calories: 300-350
• Protein: 10-15 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams

Broccoli is a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system and improved digestion. Cheese provides calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. Rice offers a source of carbohydrates for energy. This combination creates a balanced and nutritious meal, even if it’s a comforting indulgence.

FAQs about Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to comfort, deliciousness, and ease. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The creamy texture, the burst of broccoli flavor, and the satisfyingly cheesy topping make it a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us in the comments section below! Let us know how you customized your casserole and what you served it with. And be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our other amazing recipes like our Sweet Potato Casserole or our Green Bean and Potato Casserole! We’ve got a whole bunch of other ideas to try here on our blog.

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Creamy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

A comforting and cheesy broccoli rice casserole, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck. This easy recipe is ready in under an hour.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 cup Long-grain rice uncooked
• 2 cups Chicken broth
• 10 ounces Frozen chopped broccoli thawed and drained
• 10.75 ounces Condensed cream of mushroom soup can
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
4. Stir in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in the thawed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
8. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables like peas or carrots. To make it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.