If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy dish that combines the goodness of broccoli, rice, and melted cheese, broccoli cheese rice casserole is the perfect choice. This classic casserole is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a great side dish or even a vegetarian main course. Let’s dive into how you can make this tasty casserole step-by-step!
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
– 3 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 1/4 cups whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Broccoli
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve the vibrant color. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux (this helps thicken the sauce). Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently, about 4-5 minutes.
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the mustard powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until all the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Combine Rice, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Add Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. For an extra crunch, you can add a layer of crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or crushed cheese crackers.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
– Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor, but frozen broccoli works in a pinch.
– Cook the rice ahead of time so it’s ready to mix in.
– Don’t overcook the broccoli during blanching; it should still have a little crunch when it goes into the casserole.
– Customize your cheese blend: sharp cheddar is classic, but mixing in mozzarella or Monterey Jack can add a nice twist.
– Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the topping just before baking.
– Add protein: For a heartier meal, stir in cooked chicken or turkey before baking.
Variations to Try
– Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: Add cooked, diced chicken for a complete meal.
– Healthy Version: Use low-fat cheese, substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk, and add extra veggies like carrots or peas.
– Crunchy Topping: Instead of potato chips, try crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli cheese rice casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a standalone vegetarian dish. It’s also a hit at potlucks and holiday dinners because it’s easy to make in large batches and loved by kids and adults alike.
This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months—just thaw before reheating.
Broccoli cheese rice casserole is a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings comfort and nutrition to your table with every bite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness and the vibrant green broccoli in this simple yet delicious casserole!