If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and deeply comforting, Broccoli Rice Casserole is the answer. This classic dish brings together tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a lusciously cheesy, savory sauce, all baked under a golden, melty topping. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need a potluck winner, you can count on Broccoli Rice Casserole to please any crowd. It’s easy to prepare yet feels like a special treat, with just enough veggie goodness to make you feel virtuous as you go back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, using familiar staples that come together for the ultimate comfort food experience. Each ingredient adds its own touch, from the creaminess of sour cream to the cheesy finish—get ready to transform the basics into a dish that’s anything but ordinary!
- Cooked White Rice: The foundation of the casserole, providing substance and soaking up all the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets (steamed): Adds a pop of color and just the right amount of crunch and freshness; don’t overcook before adding!
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: Delivers the beloved creamy texture and rich umami undertones that make this casserole crave-worthy.
- Sour Cream: Extra tang and silkiness, ensuring the casserole is anything but dry.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Gives you that irresistible gooey, cheesy pull—use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
- Small Onion (finely chopped): Sautéed first to soften and sweeten, this ingredient helps build a savory base.
- Unsalted Butter: Used for sautéing the onion and adding buttery richness throughout.
- Garlic Powder: Lends just enough garlicky warmth to complement the other flavors.
- Salt: Enhances all the savory notes without making the dish too salty.
- Black Pepper: Adds just a bit of mild heat and depth.
- Crushed Ritz Crackers or Breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkle on top for that perfect crispy contrast—totally irresistible!
How to Make Broccoli Rice Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by getting every component ready: steam your broccoli until just tender, cook your rice (leftover rice from last night’s dinner works perfectly), shred your cheddar, and finely chop a small onion. Having everything prepped means this casserole comes together in a flash!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add your finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. This step infuses your casserole with sweet, aromatic goodness—don’t skip it!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly; you want every bite to have a bit of everything!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spoon in your broccoli-rice mixture, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese right over the top for extra cheesiness. If you’re a fan of a crunchy finish, scatter on some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs now.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Pop the casserole into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Watch for that moment when the cheese is bubbling and golden—your kitchen will smell incredible. Allow the dish to cool for about 5 minutes to firm up before diving in.
How to Serve Broccoli Rice Casserole
Garnishes
You can brighten up your Broccoli Rice Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of cracked black pepper just before serving. A scattering of thinly sliced green onions also adds fresh flavor and a pop of green that looks so inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for lightness or serve alongside roasted chicken if you want a protein boost. Warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of creamy, cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try portioning Broccoli Rice Casserole into individual ramekins for fun, personal servings. Or shape the casserole into small rounds with a biscuit cutter for an elegant dinner plate presentation—either way, it makes the humble casserole feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure you cool the casserole completely before covering and storing to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
Broccoli Rice Casserole freezes surprisingly well! Wrap the unbaked assembled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store baked leftovers in freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave does the trick—but cover your plate to keep things moist and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice gives a deliciously nutty flavor and works just as well—just be sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it in, since it takes longer to cook than white rice.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli is a convenient swap. Thaw and drain it well before adding so your casserole doesn’t turn watery, and you’ll hardly be able to tell the difference.
Can I add chicken or another protein to this casserole?
Definitely! Stir in some cooked, shredded chicken or even diced ham before baking to make your Broccoli Rice Casserole a complete meal—it’s a fantastic way to stretch leftovers.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken soup works as a great alternative. For vegetarians, you could also make a quick homemade white sauce for a similar creamy effect.
How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Make sure you use the full amount of sour cream and soup, and cover the casserole with foil if you notice it browning too quickly as it bakes. These steps keep everything luscious and moist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Broccoli Rice Casserole enough—it’s cozy, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’ve never made it before, this recipe is about to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let the cheesy, creamy comfort win you over!
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Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender broccoli florets, cooked white rice, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s an easy-to-make vegetarian casserole perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 3 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets (steamed until tender)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Sauté onion: In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rice, broccoli, sautéed onion, mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare casserole: Spread the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. Optionally, add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup.
- Frozen broccoli works well; ensure it is thawed and drained.
- For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
