DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

yumymoments

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Flavorful Comfort Dish

by
To create a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients: - 2 cups cooked brown rice - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup - ½ cup milk - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - ½ teaspoon kosher salt - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil This list gives you everything you need for the dish. Using fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch. Sharp cheddar cheese gives the casserole a rich flavor. Cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and depth. The breadcrumbs on top create a nice golden crust. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish comforting and delicious. When you mix them together, you will create a meal that is perfect for any gathering or family dinner. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps cook the dish evenly. A hot oven ensures your casserole gets that perfect golden crust. While the oven warms, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step stops the casserole from sticking. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fresh broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp. Quickly drain the broccoli and plunge it into a bowl of ice water. This shocks the broccoli, stopping the cooking. Once cool, drain it well and set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked brown rice, 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup, and ½ cup of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well until everything blends into a creamy texture. Gently fold in the blanched broccoli and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This step is key. You want the broccoli to stay whole. Make sure the cheese is evenly spread throughout the rice mixture for great flavor. Now, transfer the creamy mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth layer. This ensures even cooking and helps it bake nicely. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Stir until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mix evenly over the top of the casserole. Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crust. Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a bubbly center and a golden-brown crust on top. This tells you it’s done. Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. To make your casserole creamy, use a mix of cream of mushroom soup and milk. This mix gives you a rich base. Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor. It melts beautifully and adds a nice tang. Mixing in Parmesan cheese also boosts the taste, creating a cheesy delight. One mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This can make it mushy and lose its bright color. Blanch it for just 2-3 minutes, then shock it in ice water to keep it crisp. Another mistake is skipping the cooling period. Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes helps the flavors blend and makes serving easier. For a nice finish, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. This adds color and freshness. Pair your casserole with a side salad or roasted veggies. This combo makes the meal more balanced and tasty. Pro Tips Tip Title: Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and enhance the overall taste. Tip Title: Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. Experimenting with cheese can give a delightful twist to the casserole. Tip Title: Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for a hassle-free meal. Tip Title: Perfect the Topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. {{image_4}} You can switch the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup. This adds a nice flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also try a vegan cream soup. Want to make it heartier? Add cooked chicken or tofu. They mix well with the rice and broccoli. You can also add spices. Try paprika or cayenne for some heat. Other veggies like carrots or peas can add color and taste, too. This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. They balance the richness of the dish. If you have leftovers, consider making a wrap or a bowl. Just heat it up and enjoy a new meal! To keep your cheesy broccoli rice casserole fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. - Freezing: If you want to freeze it, cut the casserole into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating your casserole, aim to keep the texture just right: - Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes, then remove the foil to crisp the top for 5 more minutes. - Microwave Method: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it heats evenly. Knowing how long your casserole lasts is key: - Refrigerator: It stays good for about three days. - Freezer: In the freezer, it lasts for up to three months. - Signs of Spoilage: Look for odd smells, mold, or changes in texture. If any of these appear, it's best to throw it away. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for one day. When you're ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This option saves time on busy days. You can use white rice instead of brown rice. Cooked quinoa is also a great choice. If you prefer, you can try cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each substitute will change the texture slightly, but they all work well in this dish. To make this casserole gluten-free, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. You can make your own with mushrooms, broth, and gluten-free flour if needed. This way, everyone can enjoy it without worry. Yes, you can add heat to this casserole. Try mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the rice mixture. Adjust the amount to match your taste for spice. This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers are also nice. If you want more protein, serve it with grilled chicken or fish. These sides balance the creamy casserole and make a complete meal. This blog post covered a simple yet tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. You learned how to prepare each ingredient and create a creamy, flavorful dish. I shared tips to perfect your casserole, avoided common mistakes, and discussed variations. You can store leftovers for future meals and should know how to reheat them properly. With these steps, you can enjoy this dish anytime. Now, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy your tasty creation!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a cozy dish to satisfy your cravings? This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole packs flavor and comfort in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a tasty meal that delights the whole family. Let’s dive into this creamy, cheesy delight and transform your dinner routine into something special. Get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of happiness!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Flavor: This casserole combines cheesy goodness with nutritious broccoli, making it a delightful comfort food.
  2. Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add protein to make it your own!
  4. Family Favorite: It’s a dish that both kids and adults love, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Ingredients

To create a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked brown rice

– 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup

– ½ cup milk

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– ½ teaspoon kosher salt

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

This list gives you everything you need for the dish. Using fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch. Sharp cheddar cheese gives the casserole a rich flavor. Cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and depth. The breadcrumbs on top create a nice golden crust. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish comforting and delicious. When you mix them together, you will create a meal that is perfect for any gathering or family dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps cook the dish evenly. A hot oven ensures your casserole gets that perfect golden crust. While the oven warms, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step stops the casserole from sticking.

Blanching the Broccoli

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fresh broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp. Quickly drain the broccoli and plunge it into a bowl of ice water. This shocks the broccoli, stopping the cooking. Once cool, drain it well and set it aside.

Mixing the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked brown rice, 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup, and ½ cup of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well until everything blends into a creamy texture.

Incorporating Broccoli & Cheese

Gently fold in the blanched broccoli and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This step is key. You want the broccoli to stay whole. Make sure the cheese is evenly spread throughout the rice mixture for great flavor.

Preparing for Baking

Now, transfer the creamy mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth layer. This ensures even cooking and helps it bake nicely.

Adding Toppings

In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Stir until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mix evenly over the top of the casserole. Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crust.

Baking the Casserole

Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a bubbly center and a golden-brown crust on top. This tells you it’s done. Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Casserole

To make your casserole creamy, use a mix of cream of mushroom soup and milk. This mix gives you a rich base. Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor. It melts beautifully and adds a nice tang. Mixing in Parmesan cheese also boosts the taste, creating a cheesy delight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This can make it mushy and lose its bright color. Blanch it for just 2-3 minutes, then shock it in ice water to keep it crisp. Another mistake is skipping the cooling period. Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes helps the flavors blend and makes serving easier.

Garnishing Suggestions

For a nice finish, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. This adds color and freshness. Pair your casserole with a side salad or roasted veggies. This combo makes the meal more balanced and tasty.

Pro Tips

  1. Tip Title: Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and enhance the overall taste.
  2. Tip Title: Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. Experimenting with cheese can give a delightful twist to the casserole.
  3. Tip Title: Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for a hassle-free meal.
  4. Tip Title: Perfect the Topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Variations

Substitutions for Ingredients

You can switch the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup. This adds a nice flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also try a vegan cream soup.

Other Flavor Enhancements

Want to make it heartier? Add cooked chicken or tofu. They mix well with the rice and broccoli. You can also add spices. Try paprika or cayenne for some heat. Other veggies like carrots or peas can add color and taste, too.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. They balance the richness of the dish. If you have leftovers, consider making a wrap or a bowl. Just heat it up and enjoy a new meal!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your cheesy broccoli rice casserole fresh, follow these steps:

– Refrigeration: Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.

– Freezing: If you want to freeze it, cut the casserole into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Recommendations

When reheating your casserole, aim to keep the texture just right:

– Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes, then remove the foil to crisp the top for 5 more minutes.

– Microwave Method: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it heats evenly.

Shelf Life

Knowing how long your casserole lasts is key:

– Refrigerator: It stays good for about three days.

– Freezer: In the freezer, it lasts for up to three months.

– Signs of Spoilage: Look for odd smells, mold, or changes in texture. If any of these appear, it’s best to throw it away.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for one day. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This option saves time on busy days.

What can I substitute for brown rice?

You can use white rice instead of brown rice. Cooked quinoa is also a great choice. If you prefer, you can try cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each substitute will change the texture slightly, but they all work well in this dish.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. You can make your own with mushrooms, broth, and gluten-free flour if needed. This way, everyone can enjoy it without worry.

Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?

Yes, you can add heat to this casserole. Try mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the rice mixture. Adjust the amount to match your taste for spice.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers are also nice. If you want more protein, serve it with grilled chicken or fish. These sides balance the creamy casserole and make a complete meal.

This blog post covered a simple yet tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. You learned how to prepare each ingredient and create a creamy, flavorful dish. I shared tips to perfect your casserole, avoided common mistakes, and discussed variations.

You can store leftovers for future meals and should know how to reheat them properly. With these steps, you can enjoy this dish anytime. Now, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy your tasty creatio

To create a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients: - 2 cups cooked brown rice - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup - ½ cup milk - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - ½ teaspoon kosher salt - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil This list gives you everything you need for the dish. Using fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch. Sharp cheddar cheese gives the casserole a rich flavor. Cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and depth. The breadcrumbs on top create a nice golden crust. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish comforting and delicious. When you mix them together, you will create a meal that is perfect for any gathering or family dinner. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps cook the dish evenly. A hot oven ensures your casserole gets that perfect golden crust. While the oven warms, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step stops the casserole from sticking. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fresh broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp. Quickly drain the broccoli and plunge it into a bowl of ice water. This shocks the broccoli, stopping the cooking. Once cool, drain it well and set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked brown rice, 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup, and ½ cup of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well until everything blends into a creamy texture. Gently fold in the blanched broccoli and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This step is key. You want the broccoli to stay whole. Make sure the cheese is evenly spread throughout the rice mixture for great flavor. Now, transfer the creamy mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth layer. This ensures even cooking and helps it bake nicely. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Stir until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mix evenly over the top of the casserole. Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crust. Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a bubbly center and a golden-brown crust on top. This tells you it’s done. Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. To make your casserole creamy, use a mix of cream of mushroom soup and milk. This mix gives you a rich base. Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor. It melts beautifully and adds a nice tang. Mixing in Parmesan cheese also boosts the taste, creating a cheesy delight. One mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This can make it mushy and lose its bright color. Blanch it for just 2-3 minutes, then shock it in ice water to keep it crisp. Another mistake is skipping the cooling period. Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes helps the flavors blend and makes serving easier. For a nice finish, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. This adds color and freshness. Pair your casserole with a side salad or roasted veggies. This combo makes the meal more balanced and tasty. Pro Tips Tip Title: Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and enhance the overall taste. Tip Title: Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. Experimenting with cheese can give a delightful twist to the casserole. Tip Title: Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for a hassle-free meal. Tip Title: Perfect the Topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. {{image_4}} You can switch the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup. This adds a nice flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also try a vegan cream soup. Want to make it heartier? Add cooked chicken or tofu. They mix well with the rice and broccoli. You can also add spices. Try paprika or cayenne for some heat. Other veggies like carrots or peas can add color and taste, too. This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. They balance the richness of the dish. If you have leftovers, consider making a wrap or a bowl. Just heat it up and enjoy a new meal! To keep your cheesy broccoli rice casserole fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. - Freezing: If you want to freeze it, cut the casserole into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating your casserole, aim to keep the texture just right: - Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes, then remove the foil to crisp the top for 5 more minutes. - Microwave Method: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it heats evenly. Knowing how long your casserole lasts is key: - Refrigerator: It stays good for about three days. - Freezer: In the freezer, it lasts for up to three months. - Signs of Spoilage: Look for odd smells, mold, or changes in texture. If any of these appear, it's best to throw it away. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for one day. When you're ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This option saves time on busy days. You can use white rice instead of brown rice. Cooked quinoa is also a great choice. If you prefer, you can try cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each substitute will change the texture slightly, but they all work well in this dish. To make this casserole gluten-free, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. You can make your own with mushrooms, broth, and gluten-free flour if needed. This way, everyone can enjoy it without worry. Yes, you can add heat to this casserole. Try mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the rice mixture. Adjust the amount to match your taste for spice. This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers are also nice. If you want more protein, serve it with grilled chicken or fish. These sides balance the creamy casserole and make a complete meal. This blog post covered a simple yet tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. You learned how to prepare each ingredient and create a creamy, flavorful dish. I shared tips to perfect your casserole, avoided common mistakes, and discussed variations. You can store leftovers for future meals and should know how to reheat them properly. With these steps, you can enjoy this dish anytime. Now, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy your tasty creation!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

A creamy and cheesy casserole featuring brown rice, fresh broccoli, and a blend of cheeses.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they turn vibrant green. Drain and plunge into ice water to halt cooking. Once cooled, drain thoroughly.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice with the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended and creamy.
  • Gently fold the blanched broccoli and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the rice mixture.
  • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. Sprinkle over the casserole. Add the remaining cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden-brown.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. Pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Keyword broccoli, casserole, cheesy, rice, vegetarian

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating