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Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Comfort Dish for Family

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- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed) - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup or homemade equivalent - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt - Optional: 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping - Optional: 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter This dish starts with cooked rice, which forms the base. I love using either white or brown rice. Both add a nice texture. Then, we add fresh broccoli florets. Steaming them keeps them bright and crunchy. Next, we mix in shredded cheddar cheese. This cheese melts perfectly and adds rich flavor. We also use cream of mushroom soup, which gives a creamy touch. You can use store-bought or make your own for extra love. For added creaminess, we mix in some milk. Finely chopped onion adds a sweet bite, and minced garlic brings warmth. Seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper rounds out the flavors. If you want a crispy top, you can add breadcrumbs. Mixing breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter makes them golden. This dish is about comfort and taste, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13 baking dish. - Combine rice, broccoli, soup, milk, cheese, onion, and seasonings in a bowl. - Pour mixture into the baking dish and add breadcrumb topping. - Bake and melt cheese. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. Next, grab a 9x13 baking dish. Lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. This helps the casserole come out clean. Now, let’s mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and steamed broccoli florets. These two will form the base of your casserole. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup and milk. This gives your dish a creamy texture. Toss in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, the chopped onion, and minced garlic. Don't forget the spices: garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well until it’s evenly combined. Next, pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite is flavorful. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. This keeps them moist and tasty. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole. Now it’s time to bake! Place your dish in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You want it heated through and the top golden brown. After that, take it out and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is hot and cheesy, perfect for a comforting family meal. To make the best casserole, use homemade cream of mushroom soup. This adds rich flavor. You can easily make it by blending cooked mushrooms, broth, and cream. It tastes much better than store-bought. Also, steam the broccoli just right. If you overcook it, it will become mushy. You want it bright green and tender but still crisp. Want more flavor? Add spices like paprika or cayenne. These give a nice kick. You can also swap cheddar for other cheese types. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or gouda for something unique. Each cheese brings its own charm to the dish. For a crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs. They stay crispier than regular breadcrumbs. Mix them with olive oil or melted butter for added richness. You can even add herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mix. This gives a fresh taste and looks great on top. Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. They retain more nutrients and provide a vibrant color to the dish. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor. Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. Customize the Topping: Try adding different toppings like crushed crackers, fried onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for added crunch and flavor. {{image_2}} You can make this dish even more fun by swapping out broccoli. Try using fresh spinach or cauliflower instead. Both veggies add great flavor and texture. You can mix and match your favorites too. Just make sure to steam them first. This keeps them tender and bright. Want to make this dish heartier? Add cooked chicken, turkey, or a meat substitute. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great. It saves time and adds flavor. Just mix it in with the rice and veggies. This twist makes it a filling meal for everyone. If you need a gluten-free version, you have choices. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. If you prefer, you can skip the topping altogether. The casserole will still taste delicious without it. Enjoy your meal, no matter your dietary needs! After enjoying your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat, just take it out and reheat. To freeze the casserole for future meals, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. Thawing and reheating instructions: - If you forget to thaw, you can reheat it from frozen. Just add extra time to your oven baking. - Always ensure it reaches 165°F before eating. To reheat your casserole, the oven is the best choice. Set your oven to 350°F. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Microwave tips for quick reheating: - If you need a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This way, it stays hot without drying out. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here’s how: - Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it right away. - Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. - Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. - When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Bake for 30-35 minutes until hot. This saves time on busy days. You can also freeze it for later. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This casserole is very kid-friendly! Here are some tips to make it more appealing: - Use fun shapes for broccoli, like cutting it smaller or using a cookie cutter. - Let kids help mix the ingredients for fun. - Offer extra cheese on top to make it more tempting. - Serve it with a side of fruit to balance the meal. Kids love cheesy dishes. This one is creamy and tasty! You can make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier in various ways: - Use brown rice instead of white rice for more fiber. - Swap cream of mushroom soup for a low-fat version or homemade soup. - Add more veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. - Use less cheese or a lower-fat cheese option. These changes keep the dish delicious while making it better for you! This blog post covered how to make a tasty cheesy broccoli rice casserole. We looked at key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfect. You learned about different variations, storage advice, and answers to common questions. In the end, this dish is easy and fun to prepare. You can make it your own with simple swaps. Enjoy serving it at your next meal. It's a great way to get everyone to love their veggies!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort dish that the whole family will love, you’ve found it! This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole blends creamy textures with cheesy goodness and crunchy bits on top. It’s easy to make and packed with flavors. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or getting ready for a cozy family dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comfort Food Favorite: This casserole combines creamy textures with cheesy goodness, making it a warm and satisfying dish that everyone loves.
  2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and rice, this recipe not only delights the taste buds but also provides essential nutrients for a balanced meal.
  3. Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick meal solution.
  4. Customizable Dish: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or swap out vegetables to make this casserole your own!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup or homemade equivalent

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Toppings

  • Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt
  • Optional: 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

This dish starts with cooked rice, which forms the base. I love using either white or brown rice. Both add a nice texture. Then, we add fresh broccoli florets. Steaming them keeps them bright and crunchy. Next, we mix in shredded cheddar cheese. This cheese melts perfectly and adds rich flavor. We also use cream of mushroom soup, which gives a creamy touch. You can use store-bought or make your own for extra love.

For added creaminess, we mix in some milk. Finely chopped onion adds a sweet bite, and minced garlic brings warmth. Seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper rounds out the flavors.

If you want a crispy top, you can add breadcrumbs. Mixing breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter makes them golden. This dish is about comfort and taste, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×13 baking dish.

Mixing the Ingredients

  • Combine rice, broccoli, soup, milk, cheese, onion, and seasonings in a bowl.

Assembling and Baking

  • Pour mixture into the baking dish and add breadcrumb topping.
  • Bake and melt cheese.

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. Next, grab a 9×13 baking dish. Lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. This helps the casserole come out clean.

Now, let’s mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and steamed broccoli florets. These two will form the base of your casserole. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup and milk. This gives your dish a creamy texture. Toss in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, the chopped onion, and minced garlic. Don’t forget the spices: garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well until it’s evenly combined.

Next, pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite is flavorful. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. This keeps them moist and tasty. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.

Now it’s time to bake! Place your dish in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You want it heated through and the top golden brown. After that, take it out and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is hot and cheesy, perfect for a comforting family meal.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Casserole

To make the best casserole, use homemade cream of mushroom soup. This adds rich flavor. You can easily make it by blending cooked mushrooms, broth, and cream. It tastes much better than store-bought. Also, steam the broccoli just right. If you overcook it, it will become mushy. You want it bright green and tender but still crisp.

Enhancing Flavor

Want more flavor? Add spices like paprika or cayenne. These give a nice kick. You can also swap cheddar for other cheese types. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or gouda for something unique. Each cheese brings its own charm to the dish.

Breadcrumb Options

For a crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs. They stay crispier than regular breadcrumbs. Mix them with olive oil or melted butter for added richness. You can even add herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mix. This gives a fresh taste and looks great on top.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. They retain more nutrients and provide a vibrant color to the dish.
  2. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
  3. Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking.
  4. Customize the Topping: Try adding different toppings like crushed crackers, fried onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for added crunch and flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian Alternatives

You can make this dish even more fun by swapping out broccoli. Try using fresh spinach or cauliflower instead. Both veggies add great flavor and texture. You can mix and match your favorites too. Just make sure to steam them first. This keeps them tender and bright.

Protein Enhancements

Want to make this dish heartier? Add cooked chicken, turkey, or a meat substitute. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great. It saves time and adds flavor. Just mix it in with the rice and veggies. This twist makes it a filling meal for everyone.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need a gluten-free version, you have choices. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. If you prefer, you can skip the topping altogether. The casserole will still taste delicious without it. Enjoy your meal, no matter your dietary needs!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

After enjoying your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat, just take it out and reheat.

Freezing Tips

To freeze the casserole for future meals, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight.

Thawing and reheating instructions:

  • If you forget to thaw, you can reheat it from frozen. Just add extra time to your oven baking.
  • Always ensure it reaches 165°F before eating.

Best Practices for Reheating

To reheat your casserole, the oven is the best choice. Set your oven to 350°F. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes.

Microwave tips for quick reheating:

  • If you need a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This way, it stays hot without drying out.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here’s how:

  • Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it right away.
  • Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
  • Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  • When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes until hot.

This saves time on busy days. You can also freeze it for later. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

This casserole is very kid-friendly! Here are some tips to make it more appealing:

  • Use fun shapes for broccoli, like cutting it smaller or using a cookie cutter.
  • Let kids help mix the ingredients for fun.
  • Offer extra cheese on top to make it more tempting.
  • Serve it with a side of fruit to balance the meal.

Kids love cheesy dishes. This one is creamy and tasty!

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier in various ways:

  • Use brown rice instead of white rice for more fiber.
  • Swap cream of mushroom soup for a low-fat version or homemade soup.
  • Add more veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Use less cheese or a lower-fat cheese option.

These changes keep the dish delicious while making it better for you!

This blog post covered how to make a tasty cheesy broccoli rice casserole. We looked at key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfect. You learned about different variations, storage advice, and answers to common questions.

In the end, this dish is easy and fun to prepare. You can make it your own with simple swaps. Enjoy serving it at your next meal. It’s a great way to get everyone to love their veggie

- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed) - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup or homemade equivalent - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt - Optional: 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping - Optional: 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter This dish starts with cooked rice, which forms the base. I love using either white or brown rice. Both add a nice texture. Then, we add fresh broccoli florets. Steaming them keeps them bright and crunchy. Next, we mix in shredded cheddar cheese. This cheese melts perfectly and adds rich flavor. We also use cream of mushroom soup, which gives a creamy touch. You can use store-bought or make your own for extra love. For added creaminess, we mix in some milk. Finely chopped onion adds a sweet bite, and minced garlic brings warmth. Seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper rounds out the flavors. If you want a crispy top, you can add breadcrumbs. Mixing breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter makes them golden. This dish is about comfort and taste, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13 baking dish. - Combine rice, broccoli, soup, milk, cheese, onion, and seasonings in a bowl. - Pour mixture into the baking dish and add breadcrumb topping. - Bake and melt cheese. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. Next, grab a 9x13 baking dish. Lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. This helps the casserole come out clean. Now, let’s mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and steamed broccoli florets. These two will form the base of your casserole. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup and milk. This gives your dish a creamy texture. Toss in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, the chopped onion, and minced garlic. Don't forget the spices: garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well until it’s evenly combined. Next, pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite is flavorful. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. This keeps them moist and tasty. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole. Now it’s time to bake! Place your dish in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You want it heated through and the top golden brown. After that, take it out and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is hot and cheesy, perfect for a comforting family meal. To make the best casserole, use homemade cream of mushroom soup. This adds rich flavor. You can easily make it by blending cooked mushrooms, broth, and cream. It tastes much better than store-bought. Also, steam the broccoli just right. If you overcook it, it will become mushy. You want it bright green and tender but still crisp. Want more flavor? Add spices like paprika or cayenne. These give a nice kick. You can also swap cheddar for other cheese types. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or gouda for something unique. Each cheese brings its own charm to the dish. For a crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs. They stay crispier than regular breadcrumbs. Mix them with olive oil or melted butter for added richness. You can even add herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mix. This gives a fresh taste and looks great on top. Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. They retain more nutrients and provide a vibrant color to the dish. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor. Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. Customize the Topping: Try adding different toppings like crushed crackers, fried onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for added crunch and flavor. {{image_2}} You can make this dish even more fun by swapping out broccoli. Try using fresh spinach or cauliflower instead. Both veggies add great flavor and texture. You can mix and match your favorites too. Just make sure to steam them first. This keeps them tender and bright. Want to make this dish heartier? Add cooked chicken, turkey, or a meat substitute. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great. It saves time and adds flavor. Just mix it in with the rice and veggies. This twist makes it a filling meal for everyone. If you need a gluten-free version, you have choices. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. If you prefer, you can skip the topping altogether. The casserole will still taste delicious without it. Enjoy your meal, no matter your dietary needs! After enjoying your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat, just take it out and reheat. To freeze the casserole for future meals, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. Thawing and reheating instructions: - If you forget to thaw, you can reheat it from frozen. Just add extra time to your oven baking. - Always ensure it reaches 165°F before eating. To reheat your casserole, the oven is the best choice. Set your oven to 350°F. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Microwave tips for quick reheating: - If you need a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This way, it stays hot without drying out. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here’s how: - Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it right away. - Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. - Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. - When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Bake for 30-35 minutes until hot. This saves time on busy days. You can also freeze it for later. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This casserole is very kid-friendly! Here are some tips to make it more appealing: - Use fun shapes for broccoli, like cutting it smaller or using a cookie cutter. - Let kids help mix the ingredients for fun. - Offer extra cheese on top to make it more tempting. - Serve it with a side of fruit to balance the meal. Kids love cheesy dishes. This one is creamy and tasty! You can make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier in various ways: - Use brown rice instead of white rice for more fiber. - Swap cream of mushroom soup for a low-fat version or homemade soup. - Add more veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. - Use less cheese or a lower-fat cheese option. These changes keep the dish delicious while making it better for you! This blog post covered how to make a tasty cheesy broccoli rice casserole. We looked at key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfect. You learned about different variations, storage advice, and answers to common questions. In the end, this dish is easy and fun to prepare. You can make it your own with simple swaps. Enjoy serving it at your next meal. It's a great way to get everyone to love their veggies!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

A creamy and cheesy casserole featuring broccoli and rice, perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup or homemade equivalent
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) with oil or cooking spray.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, milk, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until evenly combined.
  • Pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter until they are evenly moistened. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
  • After removing from the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot.

Notes

Serve the casserole in the baking dish or transfer to a vibrant serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added color and texture.
Keyword broccoli, casserole, cheese, rice

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