I first tasted this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole recipe during a family gathering, and it instantly felt like a warm hug from home. It reminds me of those simple, comforting meals that bring everyone together without the fuss. With just about 50 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into my busy weeknights and brings the cozy flavors I crave without any stress.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
- Uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
- Faster to prepare than many traditional easy weeknight meals, saving time on busy evenings.
- Easily customizable with different cheeses, proteins, or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Ideal for meal prepping — leftovers reheat beautifully without losing flavor or texture.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
- 6 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces) Fresh broccoli works best for a crisp-tender texture; if using frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid extra moisture.
- 2 cups cooked white rice Day-old rice holds up better in casseroles, but freshly cooked still works; jasmine or long-grain rice both blend nicely.
- 3 tablespoons butter Used to sauté the onion and create a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
- ¾ cup diced onion (about 1 small) Adds subtle sweetness and depth; yellow or white onion both work well.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce; ensure to cook it with butter to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- 2 cups milk Whole or 2% milk provides creaminess; higher fat content makes for a richer sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder Adds gentle garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground if possible for the best flavor and a mild kick.
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder Brightens the sauce with a subtle tang, complementing the cheese.
- ½ teaspoon paprika Gives a smoky warmth and a mild color to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt (more to taste) Balances flavors; taste and adjust as needed.
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese Boosts richness and creates a silky texture in the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, giving the casserole a bold, cheesy flavor; the division helps create a gooey interior and a golden top.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce.
- Large pot for boiling broccoli.
- Whisk for smooth sauce preparation.
- 2-quart casserole dish, greased.
- Oven preheated to 350°F.
Using a larger or smaller casserole dish will affect the baking time. Glass and ceramic dishes retain heat well, promoting even cooking but may require 5–10 additional minutes. Metal pans heat faster, so check earlier for doneness.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. This ensures the casserole cooks evenly once assembled.
- Cook onion and butter on medium-low heat until softened and translucent. Stir in flour, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook an additional 2 minutes to form the base of the sauce without lumps.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in dry mustard, paprika, cream cheese, and 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Place broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes. This quick blanch keeps it slightly crisp, as it will cook further in the oven, preventing mushiness.
- Stir together rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Transfer to the greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bake for 35 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is lightly browned on top.
Variations on Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
| Variation Type | Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Additions | 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or cooked ground beef | Stir in with rice and broccoli before baking. |
| Cheese Combinations | Mix cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack | Adjust seasoning as some cheeses are milder or spicier. |
| Toppings | Breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or fried onions | Add extra texture and flavor; sprinkle on top before baking. |
Make-Ahead Instructions for Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Prepare the cheese sauce and blanch the broccoli as directed, then mix everything together and place in the greased casserole dish. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes, adding extra time if baking directly from cold.
How to Store Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best results, reheat covered at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole alongside simple protein dishes like grilled chicken, roasted pork chops, or baked fish. It also pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or light tomato-based soups to balance its richness.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
- To avoid clumpy sauce, whisk continuously while adding milk.
- Blanch broccoli briefly to keep it bright and crisp-tender.
- For richer flavor, use sharp cheddar and freshly ground black pepper.
- If the casserole seems watery, bake uncovered for the last 5–10 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: Dietary Modifications
| Dietary Need | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure all cheeses and seasonings are gluten-free. |
| Dairy-Free / Vegan | Substitute milk with unsweetened plant milk; use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese alternatives. |
| Low Sodium | Use unsalted butter, reduce added salt, and choose low-sodium cheese varieties. |
Nutrition Information
Per serving (estimate based on 6 servings): Calories: 350 kcal Fat: 22g Protein: 14g Carbohydrates: 23g Fiber: 3g Sodium: 420mg
Wonderful Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. This ensures the casserole cooks evenly once assembled.
- Cook onion and butter on medium-low heat until softened and translucent. Stir in flour, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook an additional 2 minutes to form the base of the sauce without lumps.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in dry mustard, paprika, cream cheese, and 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Place broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes. This quick blanch keeps it slightly crisp, as it will cook further in the oven, preventing mushiness.
- Stir together rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Transfer to the greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bake for 35 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is lightly browned on top.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of rice (e.g., wild rice, jasmine rice)?
Yes, jasmine rice adds a fragrant, softer texture, while wild rice offers a nuttier flavor and chewier bite. Adjust cooking times as necessary because wild rice usually takes longer to cook.
What can I do if my casserole is watery?
Make sure to lightly blanch broccoli and drain thoroughly. Also, cook the sauce long enough to thicken and bake uncovered at the end to evaporate excess moisture.
What are some ways to add more flavor or spice?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole offers everything I want after a hectic day: warmth, simplicity, and comforting flavors that satisfy the whole family. With easy ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that builds confidence in the kitchen and saves precious time. Give it a try, and let me know how it brightens your dinner table—I’m excited to hear about your kitchen wins!
