Broccoli-Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli-Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, it’s both hearty and flavorful with just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
• 1 (16 oz.) package frozen broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups shredded mild or medium cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Step 1: Thaw and warm the broccoli in the microwave for about 5 minutes, then drain it very well. Cut any large florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the warm cooked rice, chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed, then gently fold in the broccoli.
3. Step 3: Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
4. Step 4: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top starts to develop golden brown spots.

Tips & Variations

• Use frozen chopped broccoli instead of florets for a finer texture, though florets provide a better bite.
• Prepare the casserole ahead by assembling and refrigerating before baking, increasing baking time to 60-75 minutes. Cover with foil if the cheese browns too quickly.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works well. Steam or blanch it until just tender before adding to the casserole to ensure even cooking.

Is there a substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer. Just make sure it has a similar consistency to keep the casserole moist.

Broccoli-Rice Casserole Recipe

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This Broccoli-Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a wonderful meal or side dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks, made from simple ingredients like cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and seasonings for a flavorful and satisfying casserole.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
• 1 (16 oz.) package frozen broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups shredded mild or medium cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Prepare Broccoli: Thaw frozen broccoli and warm it in the microwave for about 5 minutes to soften. Drain it very well and cut any large florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution in the casserole.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the warm cooked rice, finely chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until well mixed, then gently fold in the prepared broccoli.
3. Assemble Casserole: Spoon the broccoli and rice mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
4. Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese topping begins to develop golden brown spots, indicating it’s perfectly melted and slightly crisped.
5. Optional Note: While broccoli florets are preferred, frozen chopped broccoli can be used instead if desired.
6. Make Ahead: For preparing in advance, assemble the mixture in the baking dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. When baking from chilled, increase the bake time to 60 to 75 minutes. To prevent excessive browning, cover loosely with foil partway through baking if needed.

Notes

• Drain broccoli thoroughly after microwaving to prevent a watery casserole.
• Use mild or medium cheddar cheese depending on your flavor preference.
• For a make-ahead option, refrigerate the assembled casserole and adjust baking time accordingly.
• Cover with foil during baking if cheese browns too quickly.
• Frozen chopped broccoli can substitute florets if preferred.

Keywords: broccoli casserole, rice casserole, cheesy broccoli rice bake, easy casserole recipe, comfort food, vegetarian casserole