![To make a delightful Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups cooked white or brown rice - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth - 1 cup milk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon paprika - ¼ teaspoon black pepper - ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the topping) These ingredients work together to create a creamy, cheesy dish. The rice and broccoli form a hearty base. The cheeses add richness and flavor. The spices give it a nice kick. Cream cheese makes the casserole smooth and soft. Broth and milk keep it moist. If you like a crunchy top, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This will make the dish even more appealing. Trust me, using fresh or frozen broccoli is easy. Each option brings a lovely green color and taste. I recommend using quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can try different cheeses if you’d like. Just keep the cream cheese for that creamy texture. For a complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - If you use fresh broccoli, steam it for 3-4 minutes. It should be bright green and slightly tender. If you choose frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and drained. - In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. - Stir until everything is mixed well. - Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. - In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. This step adds a nice crunch. - Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix on top, then add the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese. - Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is so comforting. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To get the best cheesiness and creaminess in your casserole, use a mix of cheeses. I love using sharp cheddar for flavor and cream cheese for a smooth texture. Combine them well with the other ingredients for a rich taste. Also, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier. You’ll enjoy the full flavor when it’s not too hot. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your dish. I suggest using parsley or chives. Just chop them up and sprinkle them on top. This not only adds taste but also gives the dish a beautiful look. You can also drizzle olive oil around the edges of the serving dish. It adds a nice shine and makes it more appealing. If your oven runs hot or cool, adjust your cooking time. Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top. For a crispy topping, try broiling it for the last few minutes. Just watch it closely to prevent burning. These small changes can make your casserole even better. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above. {{image_2}} You can easily swap out the cheese in this casserole. If you want a vegan option, try using vegan cheese. It melts well and still gives that cheesy flavor. You can also change the rice you use. Brown rice adds a nutty taste and more fiber. Cauliflower rice can make your dish lighter and lower in carbs. Feel free to add more veggies to your casserole. Carrots, peas, or bell peppers work great. They add color and nutrition. If you want to make this dish a full meal, include some protein. Cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans can make it heartier. Just mix them in with the rice and broccoli. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer great choices that taste just as good. If you need a dairy-free option, use almond milk instead of regular milk. For cream cheese, try a dairy-free cream cheese. These swaps will keep the casserole creamy and tasty! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section. To keep your leftover Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole fresh, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing the container. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out and thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheating can be done in a microwave or an oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes. Make sure to check that it’s warm all the way through. This helps keep it from drying out. Enjoy your cheesy delight anytime! For the complete cooking method, check the Full Recipe. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Simply prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready, bake it as directed. This method saves time on busy days. Frozen broccoli works great! It is often picked at peak ripeness and frozen quickly. This keeps the nutrients intact. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using. This saves time and makes prep easy. To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Lastly, check your cheese. Use vegetarian cheese if needed. This way, you keep all the cheesy goodness! This dish pairs well with many sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for extra flavor. For a heartier meal, try it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This blog post shared a simple recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with easy steps. I went over ingredients, cooking tips, and storage methods. You can customize it with different cheeses or add proteins to fit any meal. Remember to let it cool before serving for the best taste. Whether you make it for family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty casserole with your loved ones!](https://mycookingcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/d479d8d3-39a1-4e41-9166-b971d8f64211-768x768.webp)
Craving comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients? Look no further than this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. With simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but will also satisfy every family member. Let’s dive into the easy recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Ingredients
To make a delightful Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these simple ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the topping)
These ingredients work together to create a creamy, cheesy dish. The rice and broccoli form a hearty base. The cheeses add richness and flavor. The spices give it a nice kick.
Cream cheese makes the casserole smooth and soft. Broth and milk keep it moist. If you like a crunchy top, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This will make the dish even more appealing.
Trust me, using fresh or frozen broccoli is easy. Each option brings a lovely green color and taste.
I recommend using quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can try different cheeses if you’d like. Just keep the cream cheese for that creamy texture.
For a complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– If you use fresh broccoli, steam it for 3-4 minutes. It should be bright green and slightly tender. If you choose frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and drained.
Mixing the Casserole
– In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
– Stir until everything is mixed well.
Baking the Casserole
– Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
– In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. This step adds a nice crunch.
– Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix on top, then add the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
– Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is so comforting. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dish
To get the best cheesiness and creaminess in your casserole, use a mix of cheeses. I love using sharp cheddar for flavor and cream cheese for a smooth texture. Combine them well with the other ingredients for a rich taste. Also, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier. You’ll enjoy the full flavor when it’s not too hot.
Garnishing Ideas
Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your dish. I suggest using parsley or chives. Just chop them up and sprinkle them on top. This not only adds taste but also gives the dish a beautiful look. You can also drizzle olive oil around the edges of the serving dish. It adds a nice shine and makes it more appealing.
Cooking Time Adjustments
If your oven runs hot or cool, adjust your cooking time. Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top. For a crispy topping, try broiling it for the last few minutes. Just watch it closely to prevent burning. These small changes can make your casserole even better. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above.
Variations
Substitute Ingredients
You can easily swap out the cheese in this casserole. If you want a vegan option, try using vegan cheese. It melts well and still gives that cheesy flavor. You can also change the rice you use. Brown rice adds a nutty taste and more fiber. Cauliflower rice can make your dish lighter and lower in carbs.
Add-Ins and Extras
Feel free to add more veggies to your casserole. Carrots, peas, or bell peppers work great. They add color and nutrition. If you want to make this dish a full meal, include some protein. Cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans can make it heartier. Just mix them in with the rice and broccoli.
Dietary Adjustments
For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer great choices that taste just as good. If you need a dairy-free option, use almond milk instead of regular milk. For cream cheese, try a dairy-free cream cheese. These swaps will keep the casserole creamy and tasty!
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your leftover Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole fresh, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing the container.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out and thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Best Practices
Reheating can be done in a microwave or an oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes. Make sure to check that it’s warm all the way through. This helps keep it from drying out. Enjoy your cheesy delight anytime! For the complete cooking method, check the Full Recipe.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Simply prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready, bake it as directed. This method saves time on busy days.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Frozen broccoli works great! It is often picked at peak ripeness and frozen quickly. This keeps the nutrients intact. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using. This saves time and makes prep easy.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Lastly, check your cheese. Use vegetarian cheese if needed. This way, you keep all the cheesy goodness!
What can I serve with Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?
This dish pairs well with many sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for extra flavor. For a heartier meal, try it alongside grilled chicken or fish.
This blog post shared a simple recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with easy steps. I went over ingredients, cooking tips, and storage methods. You can customize it with different cheeses or add proteins to fit any meal. Remember to let it cool before serving for the best taste. Whether you make it for family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty casserole with your loved ones!
![To make a delightful Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups cooked white or brown rice - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth - 1 cup milk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon paprika - ¼ teaspoon black pepper - ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the topping) These ingredients work together to create a creamy, cheesy dish. The rice and broccoli form a hearty base. The cheeses add richness and flavor. The spices give it a nice kick. Cream cheese makes the casserole smooth and soft. Broth and milk keep it moist. If you like a crunchy top, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This will make the dish even more appealing. Trust me, using fresh or frozen broccoli is easy. Each option brings a lovely green color and taste. I recommend using quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can try different cheeses if you’d like. Just keep the cream cheese for that creamy texture. For a complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - If you use fresh broccoli, steam it for 3-4 minutes. It should be bright green and slightly tender. If you choose frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and drained. - In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. - Stir until everything is mixed well. - Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. - In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. This step adds a nice crunch. - Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix on top, then add the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese. - Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is so comforting. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To get the best cheesiness and creaminess in your casserole, use a mix of cheeses. I love using sharp cheddar for flavor and cream cheese for a smooth texture. Combine them well with the other ingredients for a rich taste. Also, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier. You’ll enjoy the full flavor when it’s not too hot. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your dish. I suggest using parsley or chives. Just chop them up and sprinkle them on top. This not only adds taste but also gives the dish a beautiful look. You can also drizzle olive oil around the edges of the serving dish. It adds a nice shine and makes it more appealing. If your oven runs hot or cool, adjust your cooking time. Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top. For a crispy topping, try broiling it for the last few minutes. Just watch it closely to prevent burning. These small changes can make your casserole even better. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above. {{image_2}} You can easily swap out the cheese in this casserole. If you want a vegan option, try using vegan cheese. It melts well and still gives that cheesy flavor. You can also change the rice you use. Brown rice adds a nutty taste and more fiber. Cauliflower rice can make your dish lighter and lower in carbs. Feel free to add more veggies to your casserole. Carrots, peas, or bell peppers work great. They add color and nutrition. If you want to make this dish a full meal, include some protein. Cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans can make it heartier. Just mix them in with the rice and broccoli. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer great choices that taste just as good. If you need a dairy-free option, use almond milk instead of regular milk. For cream cheese, try a dairy-free cream cheese. These swaps will keep the casserole creamy and tasty! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section. To keep your leftover Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole fresh, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing the container. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out and thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheating can be done in a microwave or an oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes. Make sure to check that it’s warm all the way through. This helps keep it from drying out. Enjoy your cheesy delight anytime! For the complete cooking method, check the Full Recipe. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Simply prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready, bake it as directed. This method saves time on busy days. Frozen broccoli works great! It is often picked at peak ripeness and frozen quickly. This keeps the nutrients intact. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using. This saves time and makes prep easy. To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Lastly, check your cheese. Use vegetarian cheese if needed. This way, you keep all the cheesy goodness! This dish pairs well with many sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for extra flavor. For a heartier meal, try it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This blog post shared a simple recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with easy steps. I went over ingredients, cooking tips, and storage methods. You can customize it with different cheeses or add proteins to fit any meal. Remember to let it cool before serving for the best taste. Whether you make it for family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty casserole with your loved ones!](https://mycookingcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/d479d8d3-39a1-4e41-9166-b971d8f64211-250x250.webp)
