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Broccoli Rice Casserole

Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, flavorful, and family-friendly dish combining tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy cheddar cheese. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. This versatile casserole is budget-friendly, easily customizable, and ideal for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Grains

  • 2 cups cooked rice (long-grain or jasmine)

Base and Dairy

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli and Rice: Steam broccoli florets until just tender and vibrant green. Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy and set aside.
  2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and most of the shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture. Stir gently to evenly coat the broccoli and rice.
  4. Transfer and Top: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Optionally, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy, golden topping.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli for best texture and color; frozen is fine if thawed and drained.
  • Slightly undercook rice so it stays fluffy during baking.
  • Mix different cheeses for richer flavor.
  • Let the casserole cool before serving to help it set and slice cleanly.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Broccoli rice casserole, cheesy broccoli casserole, easy family dinner, comforting casserole, make-ahead casserole