Broccoli Rice Casserole

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been staple in my family for decades. Is Broccoli Rice Casserole better than any other? We all have those nights where dinner needs to be quick and easy. And while mac and cheese might be the go-to for some, this casserole brings a whole new level of flavor. What are some sneaky ways to sneak veggies in? What are some of the best recipes for cheesy, creamy rice? What is comfort food at its finest? My grandma used to make something similar, but this version has my own little touches that I think I might like. I always make it a tradition at every holiday and potluck – and honestly, I’m always happy to make this!

What is Broccoli Rice Casserole?

What is Broccoli Rice Casserole? What is the ultimate comfort food hug? What is a creamy, cheesy bake with rice? ), tender broccoli florets, and a sauce that’s so good you’ll want to eat it with sand. What is a name? What is a casserole? It’s about creating a symphony of flavors and textures that somehow all just work. The rice provides a comforting base, the broccoli adds an earthy note, and the creamy, creamy base. How does cheese sauce bind it all together? What’s a crowd pleaser? What are some good ways to enjoy veggies My kids used to turn their noses up at broccoli, but now they gobble this up without a second thought. Is magic?

Why I love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this Broccoli Rice Casserole is a winner. First, the flavor is just incredible. We’re talking creamy, cheesy, savory goodness with just the right amount of broccoli “bite.” It’s not overwhelmingly broccoli-y (is that a word?). It’s perfectly balanced. What I love most about this is how simple it is to make. Seriously, it’s a breeze. Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-efficient. The ingredients are all pretty common pantry staples, so you won’t have to break the bank to make a delicious and satisfying meal. Now, let’s talk versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Add some cooked chicken or ham for extra protein, or swap out the cheddar cheese for a different variety. It’s also fantastic as a side dish or a main course. If you’re a fan of creamy, comforting dishes like Scalloped Potatoes or even a good old cheesy pasta bake, you absolutely *have* to try this. It’s that good! This recipe stands out because it’s nostalgic but modern. It’s grandma’s comfort food with a chef’s twist, if I may say so myself!

How do I make Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Quick Overview

How do I make Broccoli Rice Casserole? What’s the best way to Cook Rice, steam broccoli, whip up a creamy cheese sauce, and serve it all up. What is the best recipe for baking in a baking dish? What’s the best part? Is it mostly hands-off time, giving you the freedom to tackle other things while it bakes? What makes this recipe so special? I don’t need to be a master chef to create something delicious. Anyone can do it!

Ingredients

For the Main Casserole:
* 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice. I prefer basmati rice for its fluffy texture, but any long grain rice will work. Just make sure to rinse it well before cooking.
* 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them and pat them dry to avoid a watery casserole.
* 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped. Adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.
* 1/4 cup butter. I use unsalted so I can control the amount of salt in the dish.
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. This helps to thicken the cheese sauce.
* 2 1/2 cups milk. Whole milk creates the richest sauce, but 2% works well too. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to use your favorite. I like to reserve about 1 cup for topping.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt. Adjust to taste.
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper. Freshly ground is always best!
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds a subtle savory note.

For the Optional Topping:
* 1/2 cup bread crumbs. Panko bread crumbs provide the best crunch.
* 2 tablespoons melted butter. Helps to brown the bread crumbs.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking? I usually use butter or cooking spray, but parchment paper works too.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Cook Rice according to package directions. While the rice is cooking, you can move on to the next step. I always use a rice cooker. Is it easy to cook rice? If you’re using a pot, keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

Steam broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. If you’re using a steamer basket over boiling water, you can do this in the microwave or in an airtight container. I prefer steaming broccoli because it helps retain its vibrant green color and prevents it from fading. I like to steam broccoli, but I don’t steam it.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Set aside. What happens when you stir everything together? Make sure everything is evenly coated in that delicious cheese sauce.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

What is the best way to spread out the mixture in a baking dish? Top with remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Add Topping (Optional)

If you’re using bread crumb topping, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Set aside. I highly recommend the bread crumb topping on the casserole. It adds a lovely textural contrast to the creamy casserole.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted. What are some examples of melted and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the top from burning. If it starts to get brown, you can tent it with foil.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it to set up a bit. Serve warm and enjoy! It’s honestly best straight out of the oven when the cheese is all melty and bubbly.

What to Serve It With

What are some of the best side dishes to serve with Broccoli Rice Casserole? For a classic pairing, serve it alongside roasted chicken or baked ham. Is it good with grilled pork chops? If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try pairing it with roasted black beans or lentil soup. For a fun twist, serve smaller portions of the casserole as an appetizer at your next party. I’ve even been known to eat a bowl of it for lunch! For my family we normally just put the casserole with any meat options such as roast beef.

How do I make a Broccoli Rice Casserole?

How do I take my Broccoli Rice Casserole to the next level?Rice Selection: What are While long-grain rice is the standard, experiment with other varieties like brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
What is a goodDon’t overcook broccoli! You want it to be tender, not mushy. What is the best way to achieve steaming? Also, make sure to cut the florets into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.Cheese Sauce Consistency:How do you make a cheese sauce? If your sauce is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes until it thickens up.Cheese Variety: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of Parmesan. A combination of cheeses can add depth of flavor to the casserole.
Customization: This recipe is incredibly versatile! Add cooked bacon, ham, or chicken for extra protein. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or carrots. The possibilities are endless!
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s baking to prevent the top from burning. If it starts to get too brown, you can tent it with foil. The casserole is done when it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Bread Crumb Topping: If you’re using the bread crumb topping, make sure to melt the butter before mixing it with the bread crumbs. This will help them to brown evenly in the oven. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumb mixture for extra flavor. I learned the hard way that if you dont melt the butter it will not be that crunch at all and just mushy and not good.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Broccoli Rice Casserole (which is rare in my house!), you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s also freezer-friendly! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture might be a bit different. I always find that adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating helps to keep it moist and creamy. If frozen let thaw COMPLETELY.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs for the topping. Make sure to double-check all of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. Some rice blends can contain gluten.

Do I need to peel the onion?

No, peeling is definitely not needed.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole. This will help to prevent a watery casserole.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Definitely! Cooked bacon, ham, or chicken would be delicious additions to this casserole. Just add them to the mixture before transferring it to the baking dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my famous Broccoli Rice Casserole! It’s a recipe that’s been tested and loved by my family for years, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you. I really think you’ll love how easy it is to make and how incredibly delicious it tastes. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes. And don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out in the comments below! I love hearing about your variations and experiences. Happy cooking! And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. They’ll thank you for it!