Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is loved by many for its creamy, cheesy flavor and hearty texture. The broccoli adds a fresh, slightly crunchy element, which contrasts perfectly with the creamy rice. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish for a family dinner, or a make-ahead dish to serve at a holiday gathering, this casserole is a winner every time. It’s also easy to make and can be customized with your favorite cheeses, making it a versatile dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of rice (uncooked)

• 2 cups of broccoli florets (steamed)

• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup of sour cream

• 1/4 cup of melted butter

• 1/4 cup of milk

• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, steamed broccoli florets, and the cream of mushroom soup.

3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.

5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for a blend of Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a different cheese profile.

• Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for a complete one-pan meal.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some added heat.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom or chicken soup and substitute the rice with a cauliflower rice for a low-carb, gluten-free option.

• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and a plant-based soup to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If the casserole looks dry, you can add a little splash of milk before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using it in the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice will work, but it may require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as brown rice usually takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken, cream of broccoli, or even cream of celery, depending on your preference.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?

To prevent dryness, make sure to use enough liquid in the dish, such as the sour cream, milk, and butter. Also, cover the casserole with foil while baking to trap moisture, then remove the foil in the last 10-15 minutes for a golden top.

Is there a dairy-free version of this casserole?

Yes, you can use non-dairy substitutes such as almond milk, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or cauliflower to make it more hearty and colorful.

What can I serve this casserole with?

This casserole is great as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a main dish with a side salad.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes, a bit of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to give it some spice.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Whether served as a side dish or as a comforting meal on its own, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Easy to make, customizable, and loved by all ages, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.