Ah, casseroles! They’re the ultimate comfort food, aren’t they? There’s just something magical about a bubbling, cheesy dish that warms your heart and belly. My absolute favorite has to be this broccoli cheese rice casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with that delightful crunch from the broccoli. I remember making this on chilly evenings with my family, and we’d all huddle around the table, eager to dig in. The best part? It’s so easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked just like I am! Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: Using leftover rice can save you time and make this dish even quicker to prepare! If you’re short on time, you can also use frozen broccoli florets—just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated! Set it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your casserole cook evenly, ensuring that cheesy goodness is perfectly melted and bubbly when it comes out. You don’t want to rush this step!
Mix the Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and toss in your cooked rice, broccoli florets, the can of cream of mushroom soup, and the milk. Use a sturdy spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want every bit of rice to be coated in that creamy soup, so don’t be shy—give it a good stir!
Season the Mixture
Next, it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. I always say taste as you go—if you love a little kick, add more seasoning! Mix it all together again until everything is evenly distributed. Yum!
Add the Cheese
Here comes the best part—cheese! Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture. Be careful not to over-mix; we want those cheesy pockets to stay intact for that melty goodness later!
Transfer to Baking Dish
Now, let’s get this deliciousness into a baking dish. Grease a medium-sized baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Carefully pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with your spatula. It’s looking good already!
Top with Cheese
Before it goes into the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. This will create a beautiful, gooey crust as it bakes. Trust me, it’s going to be the highlight of this casserole!
Bake the Casserole
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. If you want to be sure, poke it with a fork; the center should be hot and the edges should be slightly crisp. Can you smell that? It’s heavenly!
Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. I know it’s tough to wait, but this will help the casserole set a bit. Serve it up in generous 1-cup portions, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your broccoli cheese rice casserole turns out perfectly! Here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Use Leftover Rice: If you have leftover rice from a previous meal, this is a fantastic way to use it up! It saves you time and makes the casserole even more comforting.
- Chop the Broccoli Small: Make sure to chop your broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and blend well with the rice and cheese. Nobody wants a huge chunk of broccoli in their casserole, right?
- Substitutions Are Welcome: Don’t have cream of mushroom soup? No problem! You can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. And feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite kind—Monterey Jack or mozzarella can work beautifully too!
- Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t hesitate to adjust the garlic and onion powder to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you’re up for it!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If it’s bubbling and golden before the 25-minute mark, you might want to pull it out early to prevent overcooking.
With these tips, you’re all set to create a delicious casserole that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the cooking process—it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun ways to mix things up with your broccoli cheese rice casserole! Here are some tasty variations to consider:
- Chicken Delight: For a heartier dish, add some cooked chicken! Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced grilled chicken works perfectly, and it adds a nice protein boost.
- Cheese Lovers: If you’re a cheese fanatic like me, try mixing in different cheeses! Pepper Jack gives it a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a stretchy, gooey texture. You can even go half-and-half with cheddar and another type for a flavor explosion!
- Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Toss in some diced bell peppers, peas, or even corn for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to chop everything small so it blends well!
- Herbed Up: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of freshness. A teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning can also elevate the flavor profile of your casserole.
- Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan alternative or make your own creamy sauce using cashews or coconut milk. Use dairy-free cheese, and you’ve got a delicious vegan casserole!
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own. I can’t wait to hear what combinations you come up with!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up your delicious broccoli cheese rice casserole, let’s talk about what to serve it with! This dish is already a comforting meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can really elevate your dining experience. Here are some of my favorite options:
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp garden salad is a perfect complement! Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s a fantastic side that adds a nice crunch and is perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness from your casserole.
- Steamed Veggies: Keep it simple and healthy with a side of steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans. They add color to your plate and a nutritious boost to your meal!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a delightful crunch and a bit of acidity that balances the richness of the casserole. Plus, it’s super easy to make or buy from the store!
- Fruit Salad: For a sweet touch, serve a light fruit salad on the side. The natural sweetness of fruits like berries, melon, and pineapple can cleanse your palate beautifully after each cheesy bite.
Mix and match these sides based on your mood and the season. No matter what you choose, your broccoli cheese rice casserole is sure to shine as the star of the meal!
Nutritional Information
Curious about the nutritional value of your delicious broccoli cheese rice casserole? Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind that these numbers are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your cooking, and revel in every cheesy bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can add a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber to your broccoli cheese rice casserole. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it in, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.
How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! If you can’t find cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or even make a simple homemade white sauce as a substitute. It’ll still turn out delicious!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze your broccoli cheese rice casserole! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should be good in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: 7 Simple Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy casserole made with broccoli and rice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover rice for quicker preparation.
- Make sure to chop broccoli into small pieces for even cooking.
- You can add cooked chicken for extra protein.
- If you prefer, use a different type of cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese rice casserole
