![- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade) - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup chopped onions - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping) - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making a tasty cheesy broccoli and rice casserole. You can use white or brown rice based on your preference. I love using fresh broccoli for its crunch and color. Shredded cheddar and mozzarella bring the perfect cheesy goodness to this dish. Cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and flavor. You can make your own or use a store-bought can. Milk helps to blend everything smoothly. Chopped onions and minced garlic add layers of taste. Don’t forget the paprika! It gives a nice touch of warmth. You can season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want some crunch, breadcrumbs are a great option for topping. Fresh parsley not only looks nice, but it also adds a hint of freshness. This is a simple list, yet it promises a comforting meal. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Blanching the broccoli brightens its green color and keeps it crisp. You want it tender but not mushy. After blanching, drain it well and set it aside. This step is key for perfect texture. - In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, onions, garlic, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheeses. Mixing the casserole is where the magic happens. The combination of rice, broccoli, and creamy soup creates a rich base. The half cheese you add now gives flavor and helps bind everything. Stir until all ingredients blend well. - Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with remaining cheeses and optional breadcrumbs. - Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once the mixture is in the dish, spread it evenly. Topping it with more cheese makes it extra cheesy and delicious. If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing. To make the best cheesy broccoli and rice casserole, you need to ensure that your rice is fully cooked before mixing. If the rice is undercooked, it will not absorb flavors well. This can lead to a dry casserole. Next, don't over-blanch the broccoli. Just cook it for about 2-3 minutes in boiling water. This keeps the broccoli bright and crisp. Serve the casserole hot from the oven. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch. It gives color and a hint of freshness. You can also add extra cheese on top while it’s still hot for a melty look. Feel free to customize your casserole. Add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein. Different cheeses can change the flavor too. Cheddar and mozzarella are great, but try gouda or pepper jack for a fun twist. You can also mix in different veggies like bell peppers or carrots if you like. Explore your options to make it your own! For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_2}} Cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is easy to modify for different diets. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping altogether. This keeps it tasty and safe for those avoiding gluten. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, try using plant-based cheese and milk alternatives. They melt well and still taste great, giving you a creamy texture without the dairy. Adding herbs can enhance the flavors. Try mixing in thyme or basil for a fresh taste. If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños. These spices will give your casserole a nice kick and make it even more enjoyable. You can also make this casserole in a slow cooker. This method allows you to set it and forget it, perfect for busy days. Just combine the ingredients, set your cooker on low, and let it cook for a few hours. For a faster option, use an Instant Pot. It cuts down the cooking time, and you can have your meal ready in a snap. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Allow the casserole to cool before storing in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure the lid is tight to avoid any spills. Freeze leftovers in individual portions. This makes for a quick meal later. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This gives it the best taste and texture when you reheat. You have two great options for reheating. For crispy edges, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. If you want a quicker option, use the microwave. Just heat in 1-minute intervals until it’s warm. Enjoy your tasty dish again! Yes, frozen broccoli can be used; just adjust the blanching time. Frozen broccoli is often picked at peak ripeness, so it can be just as tasty as fresh. Use it straight from the bag. Blanch it for about 2 minutes instead of 3. This keeps the broccoli bright green and tender-crisp. You can use cream of chicken or homemade white sauce as alternatives. Cream of chicken adds a nice flavor. If you want to make your own, mix equal parts flour and butter to create a roux. Gradually stir in milk to make a smooth sauce. Season it to your taste. Reheating in the oven typically takes about 20 minutes at 350°F. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in. If you're in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. It should take about 5-10 minutes, depending on the portion size. Consider serving with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A light, fresh salad balances the rich, cheesy flavors. Crusty bread is great for scooping up every last bit. You might also try serving it with grilled chicken or fish for extra protein. This cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is easy to make. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. This casserole serves 6 people, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings. You will love how the cheese melts into the rice and broccoli. The creamy sauce makes each bite rich and satisfying. This dish is a great way to get veggies into your meals. Plus, it is simple enough for any cook to try. Remember to check the [Full Recipe] for all the details. Enjoy! This blog post covered a simple and tasty cheesy broccoli and rice casserole. You learned about the key ingredients, mixing, and baking steps. I shared tips for perfecting your dish and offered options for customization. You can adapt the recipe for dietary needs or choose alternative cooking methods. In conclusion, this casserole is a great way to enjoy healthy veggies and cheese. It’s easy to make, and you can personalize it to fit your taste. Remember, you can store leftovers for quick meals later. Enjoy your cooking adventure!](https://mycookingcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1069036a-6bb3-467e-898f-2349739bcac9-250x250.webp)
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole that’s perfect for family dinners! Packed with nutritious broccoli, hearty rice, and a blend of melted cheeses, this dish combines flavor and convenience. In just 40 minutes, you can serve a crowd-pleasing meal everyone will love. Click to explore the full recipe and bring a delightful twist to your table tonight!