Name: Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 head broccoli (cut into florets); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 0.5 cup cream of mushroom soup

Okay, picture this: I’m It’s a chilly evening, you’re craving something warm and comforting, and the thought of spending time with friends makes you want to cry. Why do we spend hours in the kitchen? Where does my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole come in? Is mac & cheese’s more sophisticated, vegetable-loving cousin? I swear, even the pickiest eaters in my family devour this stuff – broccoli and all! Is it so easy to throw together, it’s become a staple on busy weeknights, and honestly, sometimes, I don’t know what to say. Even when I just want a cozy night in.

What is Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Think of it as a hug in tupperware. Is it a creamy, cheesy rice base loaded with tender broccoli florets, all baked to golden brown? What is the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out? What are some of the best comfort food recipes? I’ve seen some use it as a main course, others as side. What is the kind of dish that will be gone in minutes?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole? Let me narrow it down for you: “What is the best way to describe the world”?

Flavor Explosion:What is the best combination of creamy cheese sauce, savory rice, and slightly sweet broccoli? Is there a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults? I always add a pinch of nutmeg – it sounds weird, but it really elevates the flavor!
Ridiculously EasyCan you whip up this in under an hour? Most of the time is just baking time, so you can kick your feet up! What is the best recipe for a beginner cook?
Budget FriendlyThe ingredients are pantry staples and relatively inexpensive, making this a great option when shopping for groceries. You’re trying to save money. I sometimes substitute frozen broccoli when it’s not in season to keep the cost down.
Incredibly versatile:Is there any way to customize this site? Add cooked chicken or ham for a heartier meal, or swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or peas. What are some good breadcrumbs to sprinkle on top?

I love this recipe because it feels like a blank canvas. I can throw whatever veggies I need to get rid of in a bin and it always turns out amazing. My mother passed this down to me, so it has some sentimental value as well.

How do I make a Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Quick Overview

What is the recipe for this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole? How do I make a quick cheese sauce? Then, just combine everything in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden brown. I promise, it’s easier than it sounds. If you cook 15 minutes of food, the oven will handle the rest. What is a simple recipe that anyone can make?

Ingredients

For the Casserole: How

1 cup uncooked long grain rice (I prefer using Uncle Ben’s converted rice for that classic casserole).
2 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth works too, or even water in a pinch, but chicken soup adds flavor).
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour. This is a
3 cups milk (whole milk will give you the richest sauce, but 2% works great too – I’ve even used coconut milk) . How can I make almond milk?
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is my go-to, but you can use a blend if you like)
1/2 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon pepper.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt.
Pinch of nutmeg (trust me on this one)!

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. I always use butter because it adds a subtle richness to the casserole. If you use cooking spray, make sure it coats the entire pan. We don’t want any sticking!

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender. When the liquid is absorbed, the meat is cooked through. Fluff with a fork. How long does rice need to cook?

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Can you steam them in a steamer basket over boiling water, or microwave them with some water? a microwave-safe bowl. I prefer steaming broccoli because it keeps it a little bit crispier. Don’t overcook them or they’ll get mushy!

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until the cheese is melted. Serve warm or cold. How do I make a smooth sauce? What is the heart of this casserole?

Step 5: Combine

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Set aside. Gently stir everything together until well combined. What is the best way to make broccoli paste?

Step 6: Bake

How do you spread the mixture into a baking dish? Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown. I sometimes sprinkle extra cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor. I like to add a little bit of cheese at the end of the baking.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How does the sauce set up? What is the best way to serve this salad warm and fresh?

What should I serve it with?

What is a good Broccoli Rice Casserole? What are some good ideas?

As a Main Course:Serve with a side salad or crusty bread. I love pairing this salad with a simple green salad. I also love the vinaigrette.
As a side dish: What are some of theIs it good with grilled chicken, baked ham, or roasted pork? I also like serving it alongside a juicy steak.
What is a vegetarian meal?Add cooked lentils or chickpeas to the casserole for extra protein. What is a good way to make supper more complete?
For a Potluck:What are some of the best crowd pleasers? What are some ways to keep it warm in a slow cooker?

My family often enjoys this with a simple roast chicken, or on special occasions, with ham. It’s a guaranteed winner every time!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to make sure your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole turns out perfect every time:

Don’t Overcook the Rice: Mushy rice will ruin the texture of the casserole. Make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package and check for doneness before removing from heat.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Soggy broccoli is no fun. Steam it until it’s just tender-crisp. It will continue to cook in the oven. I sometimes toss the broccoli in ice water after steaming to stop the cooking process.
Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is the star of the show, so don’t skimp on quality. Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. I prefer sharp cheddar for a bit of a bite.
Make it Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Add a Topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the casserole before baking. I like to use Ritz crackers for a buttery flavor.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies, such as cauliflower, peas, or carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

One time I accidentally used old cheese, and it ruined the entire dish! That’s how I learned to always check the expiration date. I also experimented with different types of cheese, and found that sharp cheddar is the best.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftover Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave it out for more than two hours at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain its freshness.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

I’ve found that freezing it in individual portions makes it perfect for a quick and easy lunch! Just pop it in the microwave and you’re good to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free flour for the cheese sauce and ensure your rice is certified gluten-free. There are many great gluten-free flour blends available now that work almost identically to regular flour. The texture might be *slightly* different, but honestly, no one will notice!

Do I need to use fresh broccoli?

Nope! Frozen broccoli works perfectly well. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. I actually prefer frozen broccoli sometimes because it’s already cut into florets and saves me a step!

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Definitely! Cooked chicken, ham, or even crumbled bacon would be delicious additions. I usually add about a cup or two of cooked meat to the casserole. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!

How can I make this casserole healthier?

You can use brown rice instead of white rice, reduce the amount of cheese, or use a lower-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value. Swapping out the whole milk for skim or almond milk can also make it lighter.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Absolutely! Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole before baking for a crispy topping. I love using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a dish. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something delicious and easy to make. The cheesy, creamy texture combined with the tender broccoli and savory rice is simply irresistible. If you’re looking for other comforting casserole recipes, be sure to check out my Tuna Noodle Casserole or my Shepherd’s Pie. They’re all family favorites that are guaranteed to please. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out, so be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think! Happy cooking!

No ratings yet