Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Easy and Tasty Delight

Are you craving a quick, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole! This easy dish combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and wholesome brown rice for a win-win dinner. Perfect for busy nights, this casserole is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Follow my simple steps and impress your family with this delightful comfort food! Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

– 2 cups cooked brown rice

– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until tender

– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (divided)

– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade)

– ½ cup milk

– 1 cup onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– ½ teaspoon paprika

– ½ teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

When I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, I love to gather fresh ingredients. Fresh broccoli gives the dish a bright color and crunch. Using cooked brown rice adds fiber and a nutty flavor. I often use sharp cheddar cheese because it melts well and packs a punch. Cream of mushroom soup makes the casserole creamy and rich, while milk helps blend everything together.

I also like to add sautéed onions and garlic for a warm aroma. Paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Breadcrumbs on top create a nice crunch. I finish with fresh parsley to make it look pretty. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish tasty and enjoyable.

Nutritional Information

– Calories: 320

– Protein: 12g

– Fat: 15g

– Carbohydrates: 38g

This casserole is not just good for the taste but also provides decent nutrition. Each serving has a good mix of protein, fat, and carbs. It can be a great meal for family dinners or potlucks. You can find the full recipe to make this delightful dish and enjoy its cheesy goodness!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the casserole bake evenly.

2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This keeps the casserole from sticking.

3. In a skillet, heat more olive oil over medium heat.

4. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes. The onions should be soft and clear.

5. Mix in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, just until you smell it.

Combining Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice and steamed broccoli.

2. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mix into the bowl.

3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk.

4. Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is coated.

5. Gently fold in half of the grated cheddar cheese. Save the rest for later.

6. Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

7. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Baking and Serving

1. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden top and bubbling edges.

2. When done, take it out and let it cool for 5 minutes.

3. Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness.

4. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight that everyone will love!

For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Casserole

To get that cheese melted just right, layer it well. Start by mixing half into the casserole. This ensures that every bite has cheese. Then, sprinkle the rest on top before baking. This creates that gooey, bubbly top we all love.

Cooking broccoli can be tricky. You want it tender, not mushy. Steam it until it’s bright green. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. After steaming, run it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the bright color.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple salad. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well. It adds a fresh crunch that balances the creamy dish. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any cheesy goodness.

For presentation, use a nice baking dish. You can serve straight from the dish for a cozy feel. For a fancy touch, scoop servings onto warm plates. Add a lemon wedge on the side for a zesty burst. This makes the dish pop and look inviting.

For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy making your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch ingredients to make this dish your own. For grains, try quinoa or white rice instead of brown rice. Both options give a nice twist. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and more protein. White rice keeps things light and fluffy.

Cheese plays a big role in flavor. You can use mozzarella for a milder taste. Gouda brings a rich, smoky flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses. This creates a unique taste for your casserole.

Dietary Adjustments

If you want a gluten-free dish, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Many brands offer this option. You can also make your own with gluten-free flour.

For a vegan version, swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor too. Instead of cream of mushroom soup, use coconut milk with sautéed mushrooms. This gives a creamy texture and keeps it dairy-free.

You can find the full recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole to see how easy these swaps can be.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store your leftover Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. It will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you notice any off odor or mold, toss it out.

Freezing Instructions

For freezing, use a freezer-safe container. Portion out the casserole for easy reheating. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This helps to keep it fresh. It lasts about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.

When you are ready to enjoy the casserole again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave until it is hot. You may want to add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.

For more details, check out the Full Recipe.

FAQs

Common Questions About Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. For a lighter option, try pureed cauliflower with cream. These swaps keep the dish creamy and rich.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just thaw and drain it before adding to the mix. Frozen broccoli is often pre-steamed, so it saves time.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge. When ready, just pop it in the oven. This makes meal prep easy and stress-free. Check the baking time, as it might need a few extra minutes. For the [Full Recipe], refer to the earlier section.

This blog post covered a delicious cheesy broccoli rice casserole. I shared its ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and storage info. You learned how to prepare it perfectly and make it your own.

Try different cheeses or grains for fun twists. Keep leftovers fresh in the fridge or freeze portions for later. Cooking is all about creativity. Enjoy your next meal with this comforting dish!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, a perfect comfort food for any occasion! Made with wholesome brown rice, tender broccoli, and melty cheddar cheese, this simple recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious dish that's not only filling but also packed with flavor. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your mealtime today!

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Ingredients

  

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until tender

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (divided)

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup milk

1 cup onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a splash of olive oil to ensure easy removal after baking.

In a medium skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.

Introduce the minced garlic into the skillet with the onions, cooking for an additional 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and evenly coated.

Gently fold in half of the grated cheddar cheese, taking care to reserve the other half for topping later.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, then follow with a layer of breadcrumbs, which will create a delightful crunch when baked.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling gently around the edges.

Upon completing the baking, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 6 servings

- Presentation Tips: For serving, you can either present the casserole directly from the baking dish for a rustic touch or scoop out individual servings onto warm plates. For an added zesty element, consider adding a lemon wedge to the side. Enjoy this comforting dish!