broccoli cheese rice casserole recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
broccoli cheese rice casserole recipe
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The Best broccoli cheese rice casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – the broccoli cheese rice casserole. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’ve been making it for years.

It’s a classic comfort food that never fails to please, and it’s incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice is absolute perfection.

My kids love helping me prepare this recipe, and they always get so excited when it’s finally ready to be served. We’ve had this casserole for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quick weeknight dinner.

It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like broccoli which is high in vitamins C and K, making it a great option for a healthy meal.

I’ve been making this recipe for so long now that I’ve perfected the technique to ensure every bite is perfectly cooked. I start by sautéing the broccoli until it’s tender but still crisp, then I mix it with cooked rice and shredded cheese.

The cheese is the magic that holds everything together – melted and gooey on top of this casserole is truly the best part. My family can’t get enough of this casserole, and I’m confident yours will love it just as much as we do.

Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

4.6 from 1658 votes

A comforting and cheesy broccoli rice casserole that’s perfect for a family dinner. This dish combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

2 cups long grain white rice
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the Broccoli

4 cups broccoli florets

For Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
3In a large pot, combine rice, water, and salt.
4Bring to a boil over high heat.
5Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
6Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Set aside.
7In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
8Add 4 tbsp flour and whisk to form a roux.
9Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly until the mixture turns light brown.
10Gradually add 4 cups of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
11Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
12Stir in salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
13Remove from heat and add 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
14Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Set aside.
15While the cheese sauce is simmering, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender and bright green.
16This should take about 5-7 minutes.
17Drain any excess water and set aside.
18In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cheese sauce, and broccoli florets.
19Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
20Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
21In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and 2 tbsp of melted butter.
22Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
23Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
24Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
25This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein. For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños with the broccoli.

Watch Video Of How Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Works

This broccoli cheese rice casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

When reheating, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until hot and bubbly throughout. You can serve it as is or add some extra toppings like diced onions or chopped nuts.

This casserole is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even just a quick weeknight dinner – your family will love it!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Q1: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

The type of cheese you use will depend on your personal preference, but I recommend using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for the best flavor.

Q2: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen, but be sure to chop it up finely before adding it to the casserole.

Q3: How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?

This casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q4: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the regular rice with gluten-free rice.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?

The best way to reheat this casserole is in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until it’s hot and bubbly throughout.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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