This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a simple and tasty dish! It combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese for a comforting meal that’s easy to enjoy on a busy day.
The cheesy goodness makes it hard to resist! I love to pair it with grilled chicken or just have it on its own as a hearty side. Trust me, leftovers never last long in my house! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Day-old rice works best because it’s dry and holds up well in the casserole. If you don’t have white rice, feel free to use brown rice or quinoa for a different flavor and texture.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal for this dish. However, frozen broccoli can also be used – just thaw and drain it well before adding. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you could try cauliflower or mixed vegetables instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds that classic cheesy flavor. You can mix it up with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of different cheeses. For a lighter option, reduce the amount of cheese used.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a great alternative if you want a healthier choice, giving a similar tangy flavor.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Sautéing Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic can boost the flavor of your casserole beautifully. Here’s how to do it correctly:
- In a pan over medium heat, add a little butter or oil.
- Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Then, add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, just until fragrant.
Keep an eye on the heat; you don’t want them to brown too much. This technique brings out natural sweetness and adds depth to your casserole!
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old or cooled)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed or lightly cooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to go in. Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray so nothing sticks.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
If you’re using onion and garlic, grab a small pan and sauté them lightly in a bit of butter. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This step adds lots of flavor!
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice, steamed broccoli, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, melted butter, and the sautéed onion and garlic (if you used them). Add the salt and pepper, then mix everything well until it’s evenly blended.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now it’s time to transfer your mixture to the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure it fills the dish nicely.
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you want a little extra flair, sprinkle some paprika on top for color.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. It’s going to be incredibly cheesy and warm, perfect to scoop onto your plate. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole as a side or a main dish!
This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors. It’s perfect to serve alongside roasted chicken or even on its own for a hearty meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole to avoid extra moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make it lighter, consider using brown rice instead of white for added fiber, and substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Opting for reduced-fat cheese can also help lower the calories while still giving you that cheesy flavor!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Are the Best Storage Options for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.