DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

Good Soup Pot

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Comfort Food Delight

by
To make this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these ingredients: - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups vegetable broth - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Salt to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 1 tablespoon olive oil You can change this dish to fit your taste. Consider these options: - Add cooked chicken or turkey for protein. - Use different cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor. - Mix in cooked mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies. - Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch. Need to swap an ingredient? Here are some ideas: - Use brown rice instead of white for more fiber. - Replace dairy with almond milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free dish. - For a gluten-free version, skip breadcrumbs or use gluten-free options. - Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by bringing 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pan. Add 1 cup of long-grain rice, cover the pan, and turn the heat to low. Let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice should soak up all the broth and become tender. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside. This step gives your casserole a rich base. While the rice cooks, take 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Steam them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them bright green and just tender. After steaming, drain the broccoli and set it aside. This step ensures your broccoli stays vibrant and flavorful in the casserole. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma will be amazing! In a big bowl, mix the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, steamed broccoli, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and press it down gently. If you want a crispy top, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top. Now, bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly and the top golden. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy this cozy dish! To make your casserole creamy, use the right cheese. I recommend sharp cheddar and cream cheese. These cheeses melt well and add richness. Mix them with milk for extra creaminess. Be sure to cook your rice fully, so it absorbs all the broth. Overcooked rice can turn mushy. If you want it even creamier, add a splash more milk before baking. A golden top makes your casserole look great. To get that, broil it for a few minutes at the end. Just watch it closely, so it doesn’t burn. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. The breadcrumbs give it a nice crunch and color. A little olive oil drizzled over will help them brown. This casserole pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with grilled chicken for protein. It’s a great main dish, so you don’t need much else. If you want to make it a special meal, add a rich dessert, like chocolate cake. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole with friends and family! Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide the best flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile; mozzarella or gouda can add a nice twist! Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate before baking. Perfect Browning: If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning. {{image_2}} You can make this casserole heartier by adding protein. Chicken works great in this dish. Use cooked, shredded chicken for the best results. Tofu is a fantastic option for a plant-based meal. Press and cube firm tofu, then sauté it until golden. Mix it in with the rice and cheese for a tasty twist. Cheese is the star in this casserole, so feel free to experiment! Swap the sharp cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey texture. You can also try gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Mixing cheeses can add layers of flavor. Just make sure they melt well to keep that creamy goodness. Making this dish vegan is easy! Replace dairy cheese with nut-based cheese or vegan cheese shreds. Use plant-based cream cheese to keep it creamy. Substitute milk with almond or oat milk. For a nut-free option, coconut milk works well too. Your casserole will still taste rich and creamy without the dairy. After enjoying your cheesy broccoli rice casserole, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, try to keep it whole. This helps keep the flavors fresh. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot. If using a microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for one minute, then check. Stir and heat more if needed until hot. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great! First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it fully and store it in the fridge. Cover it tightly with foil. When you are ready, just bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This casserole pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas: - Roasted Chicken: The rich flavor complements the cheesy dish. - Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. - Garlic Bread: The buttery bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole. - Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light with some extra veggies. Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this casserole. Just thaw and drain it before mixing. You may want to steam or microwave it briefly to ensure even cooking. This saves time and still gives you that tasty veggie goodness. This blog post covered how to make a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. We explored essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and some helpful tips for the best results. You learned how to mix in optional ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Storing and reheating leftovers was also outlined for convenience. Now, you can enjoy this dish fresh or save it for later. This casserole is sure to be a hit at any meal. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to dive into a bowl of comfort? My Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a warm hug for your taste buds. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Plus, I’ll share tips to customize it for your own taste. Let’s get you cooking this delicious casserole that everyone will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Flavor: This casserole combines the rich, creamy taste of cheese with the wholesome goodness of broccoli, making it a perfect comfort food.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
  3. Great for Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own.

Ingredients

Complete Ingredient List

To make this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can change this dish to fit your taste. Consider these options:

  • Add cooked chicken or turkey for protein.
  • Use different cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.
  • Mix in cooked mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
  • Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

Need to swap an ingredient? Here are some ideas:

  • Use brown rice instead of white for more fiber.
  • Replace dairy with almond milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free dish.
  • For a gluten-free version, skip breadcrumbs or use gluten-free options.
  • Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping and Cooking the Rice

Start by bringing 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pan. Add 1 cup of long-grain rice, cover the pan, and turn the heat to low. Let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice should soak up all the broth and become tender. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside. This step gives your casserole a rich base.

Steaming the Broccoli

While the rice cooks, take 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Steam them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them bright green and just tender. After steaming, drain the broccoli and set it aside. This step ensures your broccoli stays vibrant and flavorful in the casserole.

Sautéing Aromatics and Mixing Ingredients

Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma will be amazing! In a big bowl, mix the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, steamed broccoli, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything until well combined.

Baking the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and press it down gently. If you want a crispy top, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top. Now, bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly and the top golden. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy this cozy dish!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring a Creamy Texture

To make your casserole creamy, use the right cheese. I recommend sharp cheddar and cream cheese. These cheeses melt well and add richness. Mix them with milk for extra creaminess. Be sure to cook your rice fully, so it absorbs all the broth. Overcooked rice can turn mushy. If you want it even creamier, add a splash more milk before baking.

How to Achieve a Golden Top

A golden top makes your casserole look great. To get that, broil it for a few minutes at the end. Just watch it closely, so it doesn’t burn. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. The breadcrumbs give it a nice crunch and color. A little olive oil drizzled over will help them brown.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with grilled chicken for protein. It’s a great main dish, so you don’t need much else. If you want to make it a special meal, add a rich dessert, like chocolate cake. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole with friends and family!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide the best flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole.
  2. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile; mozzarella or gouda can add a nice twist!
  3. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate before baking.
  4. Perfect Browning: If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.

Variations

Adding Proteins (Chicken, Tofu, etc.)

You can make this casserole heartier by adding protein. Chicken works great in this dish. Use cooked, shredded chicken for the best results. Tofu is a fantastic option for a plant-based meal. Press and cube firm tofu, then sauté it until golden. Mix it in with the rice and cheese for a tasty twist.

Using Different Cheeses

Cheese is the star in this casserole, so feel free to experiment! Swap the sharp cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey texture. You can also try gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Mixing cheeses can add layers of flavor. Just make sure they melt well to keep that creamy goodness.

Vegan or Dairy-Free Alternatives

Making this dish vegan is easy! Replace dairy cheese with nut-based cheese or vegan cheese shreds. Use plant-based cream cheese to keep it creamy. Substitute milk with almond or oat milk. For a nut-free option, coconut milk works well too. Your casserole will still taste rich and creamy without the dairy.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your cheesy broccoli rice casserole, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, try to keep it whole. This helps keep the flavors fresh.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot. If using a microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for one minute, then check. Stir and heat more if needed until hot.

Freezing for Later Use

If you want to save some for later, freezing works great! First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it fully and store it in the fridge. Cover it tightly with foil. When you are ready, just bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What are some good sides to serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas:

  • Roasted Chicken: The rich flavor complements the cheesy dish.
  • Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a nice crunch.
  • Garlic Bread: The buttery bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light with some extra veggies.

Is it possible to use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this casserole. Just thaw and drain it before mixing. You may want to steam or microwave it briefly to ensure even cooking. This saves time and still gives you that tasty veggie goodness.

This blog post covered how to make a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. We explored essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and some helpful tips for the best results. You learned how to mix in optional ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Storing and reheating leftovers was also outlined for convenience. Now, you can enjoy this dish fresh or save it for later. This casserole is sure to be a hit at any meal. Happy cookin

To make this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these ingredients: - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups vegetable broth - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Salt to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 1 tablespoon olive oil You can change this dish to fit your taste. Consider these options: - Add cooked chicken or turkey for protein. - Use different cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor. - Mix in cooked mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies. - Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch. Need to swap an ingredient? Here are some ideas: - Use brown rice instead of white for more fiber. - Replace dairy with almond milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free dish. - For a gluten-free version, skip breadcrumbs or use gluten-free options. - Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by bringing 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pan. Add 1 cup of long-grain rice, cover the pan, and turn the heat to low. Let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice should soak up all the broth and become tender. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside. This step gives your casserole a rich base. While the rice cooks, take 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Steam them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them bright green and just tender. After steaming, drain the broccoli and set it aside. This step ensures your broccoli stays vibrant and flavorful in the casserole. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma will be amazing! In a big bowl, mix the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, steamed broccoli, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and press it down gently. If you want a crispy top, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top. Now, bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly and the top golden. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy this cozy dish! To make your casserole creamy, use the right cheese. I recommend sharp cheddar and cream cheese. These cheeses melt well and add richness. Mix them with milk for extra creaminess. Be sure to cook your rice fully, so it absorbs all the broth. Overcooked rice can turn mushy. If you want it even creamier, add a splash more milk before baking. A golden top makes your casserole look great. To get that, broil it for a few minutes at the end. Just watch it closely, so it doesn’t burn. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. The breadcrumbs give it a nice crunch and color. A little olive oil drizzled over will help them brown. This casserole pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with grilled chicken for protein. It’s a great main dish, so you don’t need much else. If you want to make it a special meal, add a rich dessert, like chocolate cake. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole with friends and family! Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide the best flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile; mozzarella or gouda can add a nice twist! Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate before baking. Perfect Browning: If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning. {{image_2}} You can make this casserole heartier by adding protein. Chicken works great in this dish. Use cooked, shredded chicken for the best results. Tofu is a fantastic option for a plant-based meal. Press and cube firm tofu, then sauté it until golden. Mix it in with the rice and cheese for a tasty twist. Cheese is the star in this casserole, so feel free to experiment! Swap the sharp cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey texture. You can also try gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Mixing cheeses can add layers of flavor. Just make sure they melt well to keep that creamy goodness. Making this dish vegan is easy! Replace dairy cheese with nut-based cheese or vegan cheese shreds. Use plant-based cream cheese to keep it creamy. Substitute milk with almond or oat milk. For a nut-free option, coconut milk works well too. Your casserole will still taste rich and creamy without the dairy. After enjoying your cheesy broccoli rice casserole, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, try to keep it whole. This helps keep the flavors fresh. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot. If using a microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for one minute, then check. Stir and heat more if needed until hot. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great! First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it fully and store it in the fridge. Cover it tightly with foil. When you are ready, just bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This casserole pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas: - Roasted Chicken: The rich flavor complements the cheesy dish. - Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. - Garlic Bread: The buttery bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole. - Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light with some extra veggies. Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this casserole. Just thaw and drain it before mixing. You may want to steam or microwave it briefly to ensure even cooking. This saves time and still gives you that tasty veggie goodness. This blog post covered how to make a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. We explored essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and some helpful tips for the best results. You learned how to mix in optional ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Storing and reheating leftovers was also outlined for convenience. Now, you can enjoy this dish fresh or save it for later. This casserole is sure to be a hit at any meal. Happy cooking!

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 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • to taste salt
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce to low heat. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until bright green and just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and press down gently.
  • If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy finish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
Keyword broccoli, casserole, cheesy, vegetarian

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating