As a child, I loved the smell of my mom’s broccoli rice casserole. It felt like a warm hug on cold nights. I’d wait at the table, excited, as it cooked in the oven.
The mix of crunchy broccoli and soft rice in creamy cheese sauce was amazing. It has a 4.95 rating from over 1,000 people. This recipe is a family favorite, great for cozy dinners or big gatherings.
What is Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Broccoli Rice Casserole is a favorite in America. It mixes broccoli with fluffy rice in a cheesy sauce. Unlike some recipes, it uses fresh ingredients for a cozy meal.
I use about 20 ounces of broccoli florets, or two heads. This makes about 8 cups, great for big groups or family events.
Cooking broccoli in the microwave takes just 3½ to 4 minutes. Onions are sautéed for 6 to 8 minutes until they’re soft. Rice cooks for 22 to 25 minutes, making it tender.
The casserole is baked in a 9×13 inch dish for 15 to 20 minutes. It turns golden brown and bubbly, filling the kitchen with a yummy smell. It serves 8, perfect for gatherings or holidays.
Each serving has 568 kcal, mixing flavor with nutrition.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 568 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Total Fat | 36 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Cholesterol | 93 mg |
| Sodium | 963 mg |
This casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight to enjoy. It’s not just filling, but also nourishes the soul, making it perfect for any meal.
Why You Should Make Broccoli Rice Casserole
I love family favorites, and broccoli rice casserole is perfect for cozy dinners. It’s tasty and good for you. Kids love it because of the creamy cheese and tender rice.
This dish is more than just yummy. It’s full of vitamins and fiber. It has lots of Vitamin A, which is good for your eyes and skin.
Broccoli rice casserole is a great way to get kids to eat veggies. It’s creamy and cheesy, making veggies fun to eat.
Making it at home is better than buying it. You can pick the ingredients and make it your own. It’s a fun way to be creative in the kitchen.
It’s easy to make, too. Just 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. It’s a great choice for a busy weeknight.
It’s more than just food. It’s a special time with family at the dinner table.
Easy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Making my easy broccoli casserole recipe is fun. It mixes healthy ingredients with tasty flavors. It’s great for big gatherings or family meals, serving 12 people. Let’s look at what you need and how to cook it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2.5 lbs frozen chopped broccoli (thawed and drained)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of unsalted cream of mushroom soup
- 1.5 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper or to taste
- ¾ tsp salt or to taste
- ¾ tsp oregano
- 1 Tbsp melted butter
- 6 Tbsp Italian bread crumbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a big bowl, mix cooked rice, thawed broccoli, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Add milk, 2 cups of cheddar cheese, onion flakes, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and oregano. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Put the mix in a greased 13×9 inch casserole dish.
- Top with the rest of the cheddar cheese and Italian bread crumbs.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Take off the foil and bake for 10 more minutes. It should be warm and bubbly.
Best Tips for a Tasty Broccoli Rice Casserole
For a tasty broccoli rice casserole, a few tips can make a big difference. Seasoning well ensures every bite is full of flavor. Using fresh broccoli and spices makes the dish even better.
Adding garlic powder gives a nice kick. It goes well with the cheese. Sharp cheddar and Parmesan make the texture richer. Make sure to mix the cheese well.
Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. This makes the top golden and bubbly.
Boiling broccoli briefly before rinsing it keeps it colorful and crisp. This step also keeps nutrients in. Following these tips makes the casserole a hit at any meal.
Healthy Broccoli Rice Casserole Variations
Trying different broccoli rice casserole recipes is fun. You can change the flavor and make it healthier. Adding veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas makes it look good and taste great.
These veggies add color and nutrients. They are full of vitamins and minerals. This makes the dish a smart choice for a healthy meal.
Adding More Vegetables
Adding various veggies makes the casserole healthier. Here are some good ones:
- Bell Peppers – add sweetness and a crunch
- Carrots – boost the color and provide extra fiber
- Peas – add sweetness and a pop of green
- Zucchini – brings moisture and additional vitamins
These veggies mix well with the casserole. They create a tasty mix that everyone will love.
Using Brown Rice for Health Benefits
Choosing brown rice over white rice is a smart move. Brown rice is a whole grain with more fiber. It’s good for your digestion.
- Increased Fiber: Brown rice helps your gut health.
- Lower Glycemic Index: Keeps your blood sugar stable.
- More Nutrients: It has vitamins and minerals for better health.
Using brown rice might need some adjusting. But the health benefits are worth it. I cook the rice separately and let it cool before mixing it in.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: How to Add Extra Flavor
When I think of cheesy broccoli rice casserole, I think of great flavors and textures. This dish is very flexible. I love finding ways to make it even better.
Mixing different cheeses makes the casserole rich and creamy. Sharp cheddar and mozzarella give a nice balance. Gruyère adds a nutty taste that goes well with broccoli.
Herbs and spices are key to better flavor. Italian seasoning brings out the cheese and broccoli’s natural taste. Garlic powder and paprika add extra flavor.
A topping is important too. Panko bread crumbs with melted butter add crunch. Mixing in cream cheese makes it even cheesier.
Whether you stick to the classic or try new things, it’s all about flavor. I hope you try these tips in your next cheesy broccoli rice casserole!
Quick Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Time-Saving Approach
Short on time but want a tasty meal? Quick casserole recipes are the answer. A broccoli rice casserole can be ready fast with the right stuff. Pre-cooked rice makes it quicker.
For a quicker casserole, use frozen chopped broccoli. A 16-ounce package works great. Instead of making sauce, use 10.5-ounce cream of chicken soup and 1/2 cup of milk. This makes it creamy without effort. Add 4 to 6 ounces of Velveeta cheese for that melted goodness.
Here’s how to bake it:
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
- Mix all ingredients and pour into a baking dish.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly.
This recipe makes one serving. It’s healthy with 250 calories, 24 g of carbs, and lots of vitamins. Plus, leftovers last 4 to 5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months frozen.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Ingredients
Choosing between homemade and store-bought ingredients for broccoli rice casserole matters a lot. The debate is about quality and taste, like with cheese sauce. Making cheese sauce at home gives a richer taste and lets me pick what’s in it.
Why Homemade Cheese Sauce Stands Out
Homemade cheese sauce has big advantages. Here’s why I like it:
- Fresh Ingredients: Making cheese sauce from scratch means I use fresh dairy. This avoids preservatives and additives in store-bought ones.
- Customizable Flavor: I can change the seasonings, cheese types, and add garlic or herbs. This makes the flavor just right.
- Control Over Ingredients: Making cheese sauce at home means I control what’s in it. This helps me avoid too much sodium or artificial flavors.
- Enhanced Creaminess: Homemade sauce is creamy because of how it’s made. It makes the broccoli and rice dish even better.
- Cost-Effective: Making cheese sauce at home is cheaper than buying it. It’s also good for making big batches.
While store-bought is convenient, homemade cheese sauce is worth the effort. It adds layers of flavor and health benefits. I find that making my own sauce makes the casserole taste better and feel more satisfying.
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Rice Casserole
Broccoli Rice Casserole is great with many meals. It’s perfect for family dinners. This dish adds comfort and joy to any meal.
Perfect Pairings for Family Dinners
For a great family dinner, try these:
- Crispy Baked Chicken
- Fresh Green Salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic Bread Rolls
- Roasted Vegetables for added flavor
These sides go well with the broccoli casserole. They make everyone happy and full.
Using it as a Meaty Entree
Broccoli Rice Casserole is also a great vegetarian option. You can add grilled chicken or tofu for more protein. This makes it a filling meal for everyone.
Storing and Reheating Broccoli Rice Casserole
Storing leftovers right keeps them fresh and tasty. Use airtight containers for broccoli rice casserole. This keeps it moist and prevents bad smells.
It’s best to eat it within three to four days in the fridge. Freezing it can make it last up to six months.
Divide the casserole into smaller parts after it cools. This makes it easy to grab a serving. Making double the recipe is great for busy days.
The oven is the best way to reheat, keeping it moist. Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Reheat for 20 to 30 minutes.
If you’re short on time, the microwave works too. Just 1 to 2 minutes on high for a portion. Always keep it moist for the best taste.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Time |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | 20 to 30 minutes (oven) |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months | Thaw overnight + 20 to 30 minutes (oven) |
Delicious Add-Ins for Broccoli Rice Casserole
Adding special ingredients to my broccoli rice casserole has changed the game. The right add-ins make it taste better and feel more filling. It’s perfect for any time.
Meat Options to Consider
For a heartier casserole, I try different meats. Here are some great choices:
- Cooked chicken breast: Shredded or diced, it adds lean protein.
- Bacon: Crispy bits of bacon enhance the flavor and add a nice crunch.
- Sausage: Adding cooked sausage brings a rich, savory quality to the dish.
These meats turn a side dish into a full meal.
Spices to Enhance the Flavor
The right spices can make broccoli rice casserole amazing. Here are my top picks:
- Cayenne pepper: A pinch adds a spicy kick.
- Italian herbs: Dried oregano and basil infuse the dish with a fresh taste.
- Garlic powder: For those who love garlic, this spice offers a robust flavor without the hassle of chopping.
The Comfort Food Factor of Broccoli Rice Casserole
Broccoli Rice Casserole is my go-to comfort food. Its warm, cheesy taste makes any meal special. It’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
The mix of soft broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce makes it a favorite. It’s a dish that brings people together. It’s great for any time.
Making this casserole is easy. It only takes 10 minutes before baking at 375°F. You can also keep leftovers for up to four days. It’s perfect for busy days.
Sharing Broccoli Rice Casserole with loved ones is special. It’s more than a meal; it’s about being together. It’s perfect for any occasion, bringing everyone to the table.
