Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

why make this recipe

Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that everyone loves. This recipe brings together tender rice, fresh broccoli, and rich cheese to create a warm and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

how to make Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 5 cups broccoli florets (from about 1 large head)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
• 2.5 cups whole milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded, divided)
• 0.5 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the rice according to package directions. While the rice cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes. Drain immediately and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to ensure the sauce is smooth. Continue cooking and stirring for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add 2.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked rice and blanched broccoli to the cheese sauce. Fold gently until everything is well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tbsp of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole, followed by the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Serve this delicious casserole warm. It makes a great main dish or a side dish for grilled meats. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top before serving if you want.

how to store Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

tips to make Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

• To make it even creamier, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
• You can add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for varied flavors.

variation

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with grilled chicken, beef, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

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