There’s just something about a warm casserole that wraps around you like a big, cozy hug, right? This creamy and cheesy broccoli cheese rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food in my house! It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to dish for family gatherings and chilly evenings. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped this up after a long day, knowing it would bring smiles to my loved ones’ faces. Plus, it’s so easy to make! The combination of tender broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese mixed with fluffy rice creates a dish that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, it’ll become a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious broccoli cheese rice casserole that everyone will love:
- 2 cups cooked rice (I usually prepare this ahead of time, so it’s ready to go!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (Fresh or frozen will work; I prefer fresh for that vibrant crunch!)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (This adds that creamy texture that makes the casserole so comforting!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (You can’t go wrong with cheese—make sure it’s shredded for easy melting!)
- 1/2 cup milk (This helps to loosen things up and blend all the flavors together beautifully!)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (A little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the flavor!)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (Trust me, this adds a depth of flavor you won’t want to skip!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Always adjust these to your liking; I like a good sprinkle!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Ready to dive into making this delicious broccoli cheese rice casserole? Let’s get started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly, so don’t skip this step!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed and happy together. You want that creamy soup to coat every little piece of broccoli and rice.
Now, here comes the fun part! Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This will melt into the mixture and create that gooey goodness we all love. Next, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Don’t be shy—get it nice and snug in the dish!
Finally, top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese for a glorious cheesy crust. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is all bubbly and golden, and the casserole is heated through. Yum!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a serving of this delightful broccoli cheese rice casserole (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But they give you a good idea of the hearty goodness packed into each serving of this comforting casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This casserole comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to go.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with rice, broccoli, and cheese, this dish is not just a side; it’s a satisfying main course that’ll keep you full and happy.
- Comforting Delight: There’s something so cozy about a cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. It’s the perfect dish for a chilly night or when you need a little extra warmth in your life.
- Great Vegetarian Option: Whether you’re a full-time vegetarian or just looking to cut back on meat, this casserole is a fantastic choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor or heartiness!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your broccoli cheese rice casserole turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some fantastic tips to help you out!
- Use Day-Old Rice: If you have some leftover rice from the day before, that’s perfect! Day-old rice is drier and will absorb the creamy goodness better, giving you a fantastic texture.
- Broccoli Choices: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in your casserole.
- Cheese Swap: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try using Monterey Jack for a creamier consistency or even a sharp white cheddar for a kick of flavor. Cheese is so versatile!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes! You want it to be bubbly and golden but not dry. If it starts to brown too much on top, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Make it Your Own: This casserole is a blank canvas! Add cooked chicken, ham, or even some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect Consistency: If you find the mixture too thick before baking, add a splash more milk to loosen it up. You want it creamy but not soupy.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let your casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes for easier serving!
With these tips, you’re set to create a broccoli cheese rice casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this broccoli cheese rice casserole! Here are some of my favorite variations that you might want to try:
- Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add in some cooked chicken or ham! Just chop them up and mix them in with the other ingredients. It adds great flavor and makes the casserole even more filling!
- Other Veggies: Don’t limit yourself to just broccoli! Try adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet corn for a pop of color and flavor. You could also mix in some peas for sweetness!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It’ll give your casserole a nice zing that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese!
- Different Cheeses: Shake things up by using different types of cheese. Gouda or pepper jack can bring a unique flavor twist, while a mix of mozzarella and cheddar will give you that gooey, stretchy texture!
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil can brighten up the dish. You could also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or curry powder for a whole new flavor profile!
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free version or make your own with gluten-free ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions!
These variations make it easy to customize your casserole based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. So go wild and create your own signature version of this comforting dish!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious broccoli cheese rice casserole, it’s time to think about what to serve with it! This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can really elevate your meal. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement. The crunch of the greens and the tangy dressing balance out the creaminess of the casserole beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with garlic bread! The crispy, buttery goodness pairs wonderfully with the cheesy casserole and makes for a comforting combo.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving some roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus on the side. The caramelized flavors and slight crunch of roasted veggies are a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed with a bit of butter and lemon zest add a pop of color and freshness to your plate, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Fruit Salad: For a refreshing touch, a bright fruit salad can cleanse the palate. Think strawberries, blueberries, and a hint of mint for a sweet finish to your meal!
These sides not only enhance the overall dining experience but also add a variety of flavors and textures to your meal. So go ahead, mix and match, and enjoy your comforting broccoli cheese rice casserole with these delightful accompaniments!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some leftovers of that amazing broccoli cheese rice casserole? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat it so that it stays just as delicious as when it came out of the oven.
First, let the casserole cool completely before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftover casserole into an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the fridge, where it’ll keep for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It should last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, onto reheating! The best way to do it is to pop it back into the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the casserole in a baking dish, covering it with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through. If you want that cheesy top to be nice and bubbly again, remove the foil for the last few minutes!
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed evenly.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every bite of your broccoli cheese rice casserole, even days later! Enjoy!
Broccoli cheese rice casserole: 7 comforting treats await
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy broccoli rice casserole that is hearty and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese rice casserole
