![- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup - 1 cup milk To make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, start with cooked rice. You can use either white or brown rice. I love brown rice for its nutty flavor and health benefits. Next, you'll need fresh broccoli florets. They add color and a nice crunch to the dish. Sharp cheddar cheese is a must for that creamy, cheesy goodness. Cream of mushroom soup brings moisture and flavor. Finally, milk helps blend all these ingredients together into a savory mix. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes Seasonings make the casserole pop! Garlic powder and onion powder bring depth to each bite. Salt and black pepper enhance the flavors. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes for a fun twist. These simple extras make your dish even more tasty. - ½ cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons olive oil A crisp topping makes this casserole special. Use breadcrumbs to create a crunchy layer on top. Mixing in olive oil helps the breadcrumbs brown nicely. This adds a lovely texture to your dish. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy filling. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, fresh broccoli, shredded cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. - Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly for even cooking. - In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until the breadcrumbs are coated. - Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. - Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delight for the whole family. You can find the [Full Recipe] online for more details. - Use leftover rice for added convenience. It saves time and adds a nice texture. - Blanch broccoli for a brighter color and crunch. This helps keep the broccoli fresh and vibrant. - Garnish with extra cheese and chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and taste. - Serve in individual ramekins for a cozy touch. It makes each serving feel special and warm. - Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere. Each cheese offers a unique flavor twist. - Add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein. This makes the dish heartier and more filling. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. {{image_2}} Healthy versions of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole can make it lighter without losing taste. You can substitute brown rice for white rice. Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients. This small change can make the dish healthier. Another way to lighten it up is by using low-fat cheese and soup. This swap cuts down on calories but keeps the cheesy goodness. Your family will love it without knowing it's healthier! You can also explore alternative ingredients. If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken. You can even make a homemade version using milk and flour. This change can give you a fresher taste. Adding other veggies can boost the dish's nutrition and flavor. Spinach or bell peppers work well. They add color and more vitamins. Plus, they give a nice crunch to every bite! For dietary modifications, you can make this casserole gluten-free. Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. This simple swap keeps everyone safe and happy. If you want a vegan option, plant-based cheeses and cream soup can work wonders. They melt and blend nicely, just like regular cheese. This allows everyone to enjoy the dish, regardless of their diet. These variations ensure you can customize Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole to fit your family’s needs. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above! Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven. Make sure it's warmed through before serving. If you want to save some for later, freeze the unbaked casserole. It can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw overnight in the fridge. This helps keep the texture nice. To keep your casserole tasty, avoid freezing it after baking. This ensures the texture and flavor stay great. If you plan to freeze it, store the breadcrumbs separately. This keeps them crunchy when you bake. Approximately 3 days in an airtight container. To keep it fresh, store it right after cooling. Yes, prepare it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking. This saves time on busy days and allows flavors to blend. Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives. This keeps the creaminess while catering to dairy-free diets. It pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Add some fruit for a nice contrast! Yes, frozen broccoli can be used—just thaw and drain excess water. This makes meal prep quicker and easier. This article guides you through making a delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. You learned about the key ingredients, helpful tips, and variations for dietary needs. Remember, this dish is flexible. You can adjust ingredients and toppings to fit your taste or diet. Whether for a quick meal or a special gathering, it’s sure to please. Enjoy your cooking, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!](https://goodsouppot.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/46d36333-3df4-4ae1-bb73-7e151745e051-250x250.webp)
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Indulge in the comfort of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, a delightful dish that's perfect for any meal! This easy recipe combines creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh broccoli and fluffy rice, all baked to perfection. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a family-friendly meal that everyone will love.