What ingredients do I need to make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

To make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, you will need cooked white or brown rice, fresh or frozen broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, diced onions (optional), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Some recipes also include butter and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. These ingredients combine to create a creamy, cheesy dish with a tender broccoli texture.

Can I prepare Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in a baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or potlucks.

How do I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole without using cream soup?

To avoid canned cream soup, create a homemade creamy base using a roux of butter and flour cooked with milk, then stir in shredded cheese until melted. Combine this sauce with cooked rice and steamed broccoli. This method results in a fresher, less processed casserole and allows you to control the seasoning and texture.

What are some good protein additions for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Popular protein additions include cooked chicken breast, ground beef, crumbled bacon, or turkey. These can be mixed into the casserole before baking to make the dish more filling and balanced. For a vegetarian option, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.

How can I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier?

To make a healthier version, use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber, low-fat cheese and sour cream to reduce fat content, and fresh broccoli rather than frozen to maximize nutrients. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots and reduce salt by using low-sodium broth or soup options. Baking uncovered toward the end helps achieve a crispy topping without added fat.

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe With Creamy Flavor

Name: Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups quick-cooking white rice forming the hearty base; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter adds richness and helps sauté the veggies; 1 medium chopped white onion provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets or frozen as a substitute for that nutritious crunch; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup about 1 and 1/4 cups creating the creamy sauce; 8 ounces processed cheese or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey goodness; 1/2 cup milk helps blend the sauce to a smooth consistency; 1/3 cup crushed potato chips for a crunchy topping that finishes it off perfectly

Description

🧀 Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe with Creamy and Flavorful Goodness is a comforting side dish that combines creamy textures with fresh broccoli for a nutritious treat.
🍚 This casserole balances cheesy richness and a crunchy potato chip topping, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

1 and 1/2 cups quick-cooking white rice forming the hearty base

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter adds richness and helps sauté the veggies

1 medium chopped white onion provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor

4 cups fresh broccoli florets or frozen as a substitute for that nutritious crunch

1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup about 1 and 1/4 cups creating the creamy sauce

8 ounces processed cheese or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey goodness

1/2 cup milk helps blend the sauce to a smooth consistency

1/3 cup crushed potato chips for a crunchy topping that finishes it off perfectly

Instructions

1-Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your ingredients by cooking 1 and 1/2 cups of quick-cooking white rice until it yields about 4 cups, then chop the onion and measure out the broccoli florets.

2-In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped white onion and 4 cups of broccoli florets until they’re tender and fragrant.

3-In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with the sautéed onion and broccoli, then stir in 1 can of cream of chicken soup, half of the 8 ounces of processed cheese or 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk until everything melts together smoothly.

4-Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly, and top with the remaining cheese and 1/3 cup of crushed potato chips.

5-Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top, then let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

🧽 Use fresh broccoli for the best texture; frozen broccoli works well too.
🥄 Crushed potato chips add a delightful crunch; substitute with breadcrumbs if preferred.
🧀 Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for varied flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 600 milligrams
Fat: 18 grams
Saturated Fat: 10 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 6 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 28 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Protein: 9 grams
Cholesterol: 40 milligrams

Keywords: Cheesy Broccoli Rice, Creamy Casserole, Comfort Food, Side Dish