Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole: Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food

Craving comfort food that’s both delicious and easy to make?

Look no further! Our Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing classic.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly creamy and comforting, the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
• The combination of broccoli, rice, and cheese is simply irresistible, even for picky eaters.
• It’s a breeze to make, with minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions.
• It’s a great make-ahead dish for potlucks, holidays, or busy weeknights.
• It’s highly customizable; you can easily add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or proteins.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets our Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole apart is its emphasis on flavor and texture. We use a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack cheese to give it that perfect cheesy pull. Plus, we lightly sauté the broccoli before adding it to the casserole, this brings out a nice subtle, nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming too mushy, which is a common issue with some broccoli rice casserole recipes.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (adds a nice sharp flavor)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for extra meltiness)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the rice according to the package directions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. Set aside.
3. While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly tender-crisp.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the broccoli and onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Gently fold the cooked rice into the cheese sauce.
8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your casserole to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

• Crispy Fried Onions: Sprinkle a generous layer of crispy fried onions on top of the casserole before baking.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of herbs for a crunchy topping. Sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Bacon: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the casserole for a smoky flavor boost.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the broccoli in the skillet. It should be slightly tender-crisp, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use freshly grated cheese for best results, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltiness.
• Make sure to stir the cheese into the sauce while it’s still on the heat to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
• For a richer flavor, you can use heavy cream instead of milk.
• Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving, so it sets up a bit and is easier to portion out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
  

  A: Yes, you can. Just make sure to thaw it and drain off any excess water before adding it to the recipe. You might need to cook it for a little less time in the skillet.

• Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  

  A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when baking from cold.

• Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
  

  A: Yes, you can. Assemble the casserole, let it cool completely, and then freeze it well wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. The texture may change slightly after freezing.

• Q: Can I substitute the rice?
  

  A: Yes! You can use other types of rice like brown rice (will need to adjust cooking time), or even quinoa as a substitute.

• Q: Can I use different cheese?
  

  A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with other cheese types like Gruyere, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of a kick.

Variations and Customization Options

Here are some ideas to make this casserole your own:

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, diced ham, or even cooked sausage for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Add other veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapenos for a little heat.
• Herb Infusion: Add herbs such as thyme, rosemary or Italian seasoning to elevate the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole is delicious on its own as a main dish, or as a side dish. It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, baked ham, or a simple salad. It is also a great option to bring to a potluck!

Conclusion

Our Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a true comfort food classic that is incredibly easy to make and satisfying. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and customizable nature, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and share your photos with us! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes.

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