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Broccoli-Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 103 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://todayquickmeals.com/broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe/