Cheesy Broccoli2 2 Rice Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli2 2 Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Veggie Twist 🥦🧀🍚

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a satisfying, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than our Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. This delightful easy casserole recipe combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese into a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or weekend family dinners. Incorporating the wholesome goodness of vegetables with the richness of cheese, this cheesy broccoli rice casserole is a fantastic choice among veggie dishes and dinner recipes. Whether you’re craving classic baked mac and cheese or exploring new rice casserole recipes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

2. Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

• 1 ½ cups cooked rice (preferably long grain or jasmine for best fluffiness)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets – steamed or blanched
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds a nice flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked chicken or ham (optional, for added protein)

For more inspiration on easy dinner ideas) and comfort food recipes.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

**Preparation**

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.

**Cook the rice**

Prepare your rice according to package instructions, then set aside to cool slightly. For quicker prep, use leftover rice or microwaveable rice options.

**Steam or blanch the broccoli**

While the rice cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli until tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

**Sauté aromatics**

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

**Combine ingredients**

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, sautéed onions and garlic, milk or heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add shredded cheese (cheddar and Parmesan) to the mixture, reserving a little for topping.

**Assemble the casserole**

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and optionally, add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.

**Bake**

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top. For a crispy cheese crust, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes if desired.

4. Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor and melting quality.
• Opt for cooked chicken or ham to turn this into a complete dinner.
• Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• You can make this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when reheating.
• For a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free rice and check other ingredients for gluten content.

5. Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions

This cheesy broccoli rice casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. For an added flavor boost, sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

Serve this hearty comfort food alongside a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This versatile dish is perfect for weekend family dinners or even a casual weeknight Abendessen Rezepte that everyone will love.

6. Variations to Elevate Your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Add cooked bacon bits for extra savory flavor.
• Mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggie goodness.
• Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for varying flavors.
• For a spicy twist, add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.

7. Related Recipes to Explore

• Baked Mac and Cheese – Another ultimate comfort food that pairs well with this casserole.
• Chicken Wild Rice Casserole – For those who enjoy hearty rice-based dishes.
• Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole – A creamy, cheesy dish perfect as a side or main course.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I make this cheesy rice casserole healthier?

Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for added fiber and lower carbs. Incorporate more vegetables like carrots or zucchini, and opt for reduced-fat cheese options.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30–35 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Cheesy Broccoli Rice?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.

9. Conclusion

The Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a perfect blend of comfort foods and veggie dishes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its irresistible cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli, this easy casserole offers a delightful way to enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal. Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or spice it up for extra flavor. For more delicious pasta recipes and breakfast ideas, explore our website. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Broccoli2 2 Rice Casserole

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• Author: Maria
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian (without meat)

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Description

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a veggie twist, combining tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese in a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for weeknights or family dinners. This easy casserole recipe is customizable with proteins and spices for a delicious, wholesome meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups cooked rice (preferably long grain or jasmine for best fluffiness)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets – steamed or blanched
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds a nice flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked chicken or ham (optional, for added protein)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Prepare your rice according to package instructions, then set aside to cool slightly. Use leftover rice or microwaveable rice options for quicker prep.
3. Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
4. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, sautéed onions and garlic, milk or heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add shredded cheese (cheddar and Parmesan) to the mixture, reserving a little for topping.
6. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and optionally, add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.
7. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top. For a crispy cheese crust, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes if desired.

Notes

• Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor and melting quality.
• Opt for cooked chicken or ham to turn this into a complete dinner.
• Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; add a few extra minutes to bake when reheating.
• To make it gluten-free, ensure to use gluten-free rice and check other ingredients for gluten content.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350 Kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 50mg