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

Dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with this irresistible Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole. This recipe is a delightful blend of creamy cheese sauce, tender rice, and vibrant broccoli, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or even a festive holiday side. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more. Imagine the warmth of the cheesy goodness, the tender rice perfectly cooked, and the subtle sweetness of the broccoli all combining to create a dish that’s both satisfying and utterly delicious. This isn’t just a casserole; it’s a hug in a bowl, a culinary masterpiece that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals or impress your guests with this undeniably delicious and surprisingly simple Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole.

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 adventure in comfort food. There are several reasons why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unbelievably Easy: The simplicity of this recipe is its greatest strength. With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. No special skills or fancy equipment needed!
• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of creamy cheese sauce, savory rice, and subtly sweet broccoli is a symphony of flavors. Each bite is a burst of cheesy goodness complemented by the delicate vegetable notes.
• Perfectly Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add-ins, or spices to personalize this recipe. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes! Prefer a different cheese blend? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This casserole is a guaranteed hit at any gathering. It’s the perfect dish to share with family and friends, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need to prepare a dish in advance for a party.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making this a delicious and affordable meal option for any budget.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy, creamy texture and familiar flavors make this a hit with kids. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into their diets without complaint. This makes this recipe the perfect solution for picky eaters.

Why You Should Try This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole offers a multitude of benefits:

• Nutrient-Rich: Broccoli is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this casserole a surprisingly healthy option. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
• Comfort Food Reimagined: This recipe takes the classic comfort food concept and elevates it to new heights. It’s a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season.
• Versatile Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted meats, or even a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal.
• Leftover Potential: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers for lunch the next day. The flavors actually improve upon sitting, making it even more delightful the second time around!
• Impress Your Guests: This dish looks impressive and tastes even better, making it the perfect recipe to wow your guests without the fuss of a complicated meal.
• Satisfies Cravings: This casserole hits all the right notes creamy, cheesy, and comforting perfectly satisfying those cravings for a rich and indulgent meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked later, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week. This is a lifesaver when you are short on time!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients and tools ensures a smooth and successful cooking experience. Let’s get started:

Detailed List of Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides healthy fats and enhances the flavor of the sautéed onions and garlic. You can substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil if preferred.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the casserole. Use yellow onion for a classic taste, or try red onion for a slightly sharper note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a pungent and savory aroma and flavor to the casserole. Fresh garlic is always best, but you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar in a pinch.
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice: The base of the casserole, providing a fluffy and satisfying texture. Long-grain rice holds its shape well after cooking, which is crucial for this recipe.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the rice. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead. You can also use water, but the flavor will be less rich.
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained: Adds nutrients, color, and a delightful subtle sweetness. Ensure the broccoli is thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Creates a rich and creamy base for the cheese sauce. You can substitute with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce and helps it to melt the cheese evenly. Whole milk will result in a richer, creamier sauce, but you can use 2% or skim milk if preferred.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A classic choice that provides a sharp and tangy flavor to the casserole. Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can also use mild cheddar or a blend.
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a milder, creamy counterpoint to the cheddar cheese. This is a versatile cheese, but feel free to substitute it with your favourite melting cheese such as pepper jack, Colby Jack, or even provolone.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. Taste and adjust to your preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice. Freshly ground black pepper is always best.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

• Large skillet: For sautéing the onions and garlic and cooking the rice.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for baking this casserole. Make sure the dish is oven-safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measuring of ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients in the skillet and baking dish.
• Cheese grater: If you are not using pre-shredded cheese.
• Can opener: For opening the can of cream of mushroom soup.
• Oven mitts or gloves: For safely handling the hot baking dish.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Let’s create this delicious Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole step-by-step:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole is baked evenly and to the perfect temperature. **Don’t skip this step!**
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish and makes it easier to serve. Use cooking spray, butter, or olive oil for greasing.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. **Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the onions to prevent them from steaming.**
4. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The onions should be translucent and slightly caramelized.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. **Be careful not to burn the garlic.** It should be fragrant but not browned.
6. Add rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted. This step adds a nutty flavor and helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. **Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.**
7. 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. **Do not lift the lid during simmering**, as this will release steam and prevent the rice from cooking evenly.
8. Stir in the thawed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. **Ensure the cheese is fully incorporated to create a smooth and creamy sauce.**
9. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly to ensure even baking.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. **The casserole is ready when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.**
11. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too soupy. This step also allows the flavours to meld together for an even more delicious experience.

Tips and Variations for Your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Experiment and make this recipe your own!

• Cheese Variations: Try different cheese combinations, such as Colby Jack, pepper jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Experiment to find your perfect cheese blend!
• Add-Ins: Enhance the casserole with additional ingredients like cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Check labels carefully!
• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or a plant-based alternative. Use vegan cream of mushroom soup and your preferred vegan cheese substitute.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the casserole during baking to prevent it from drying out or burning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure that the baking dish is not overcrowded, as this will prevent proper baking and may result in a soggy casserole.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

While this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is undeniably indulgent, it offers some surprising health benefits thanks to its ingredients. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. However, a general nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings) would be approximately:

• Calories: Around 350-400 calories
• Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-45 grams

The nutritional value is largely attributed to the key ingredients:

• Broccoli: An excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also a good source of folate and potassium.
• Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and some essential vitamins. Choose lower-fat cheeses to reduce overall fat content.
• Rice: A source of carbohydrates, providing energy. Choose brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Remember that this is an approximation, and the actual nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs about Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole recipe is a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients expertly combined. Its ease of preparation, incredible flavor, and versatility make it a perfect addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this recipe will not disappoint. The creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant broccoli create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food classic. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! And for more delicious casserole recipes, check out our Easy Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Casserole or Green Bean and Potato Casserole!

Happy cooking! And don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board for later! Pinterest

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

A comforting and cheesy broccoli rice casserole, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

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

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• 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.