Broccoli Rice Casserole is like that warm hug from your grandma you never knew you needed. Imagine a creamy, cheesy delight with tender broccoli nestled in fluffy rice, all blanketed in a golden, bubbly crust that sings “dinner time!” The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make even the pickiest eaters perk up and ask for seconds (or thirds if they’re feeling adventurous). For more inspiration, check out this scalloped potatoes recipe recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen broccoli in my casserole?
- How can I make this dish vegan?
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker. Picture this: rainy Sunday afternoons spent with family, the smell of casserole bubbling away while laughter and stories fill the air. Whether you whip it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or bring it to a potluck where everyone fights over the last spoonful, Broccoli Rice Casserole is sure to steal the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Broccoli Rice Casserole is super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its creamy texture combined with cheesy goodness creates an irresistible flavor profile
- The vibrant green of the broccoli against the cheesy backdrop offers stunning visual appeal on any table
- Versatile enough to be a side dish or a main course, it’s great for any occasion!
I remember making this casserole for my friends’ game night and watching them devour every bite—talk about pressure to impress!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen works wonders here; just ensure they’re tender yet crisp.
Long-Grain Rice: I love using long-grain rice because it stays fluffy and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds that delightful tanginess; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use store-bought or homemade; it adds richness and moisture to the casserole. comforting zucchini soup.
Onion: A finely chopped onion lends sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results. sweet chili meatballs.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder brings out that savory essence—don’t skip this one!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a crispy topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
Butter: Melted and mixed with breadcrumbs, it creates an irresistible crunchy layer on top.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop your broccoli into small florets and set aside. Measure out your rice according to package instructions.
Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and add finely chopped onions. Cook until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed onions, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, and half of your cheese. Stir until well combined.
Layer It Up!: Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly across the bottom while ensuring every bit of broccoli is tucked in snugly.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly over the top followed by panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. This creates that crispy crust we all crave!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it—you want perfection!
Enjoy diving into this unapologetically cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole—it’s comfort food at its finest! Don’t forget to share some stories while feasting on this delightful dish—because every great meal deserves great company! For more inspiration, check out this complete chicken dinner recipe.
You Must Know
- Broccoli Rice Casserole is more than comfort food; it’s a delightful way to sneak in those greens
- With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for family dinners and potlucks
- The aroma of baking cheese will have everyone flocking to the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the rice, then sauté the broccoli until tender. Mix everything together with cheese and bake until bubbly for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or add proteins like chicken or shredded turkey for a heartier meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking your broccoli; it should be bright green and tender-crisp
- Use leftover rice for quicker prep time
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack to elevate flavors
The first time I made Broccoli Rice Casserole, my friends declared it a “vegetable miracle.” It was the perfect side dish that turned even the most skeptical veggie lovers into fans. creamy cheddar corn chowder oven roasted cauliflower side dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in my casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace dairy with plant-based cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Broccoli Rice Casserole is a heartwarming, creamy dish that combines tender broccoli and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a golden, cheesy crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to delight even the pickiest eaters. With its comforting aroma and vibrant presentation, it’s not just a meal; it’s an invitation to create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop broccoli into small florets and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed onions, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
