Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole

Why make this recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole is a great dish for busy weeknights. It combines healthy broccoli with tasty cheddar cheese, making it both nutritious and delicious. This casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for families or gatherings. It’s a comfort food that everyone will love!

How to make Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the melted butter and milk until well combined.
4. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to serve Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole

Serve this casserole hot as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a simple green salad to balance out the meal.

How to store Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat it, just reheat in the oven or microwave.

Tips to make Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole

• Make sure to use fresh broccoli for the best flavor.
• You can substitute brown rice for white rice if you prefer healthier options.
• Try adding some cooked chicken or ground beef for extra protein.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or additional cheese on top before baking.

Variation

You can easily change up the flavors in this casserole. Try adding other veggies like bell peppers or carrots. You can also use different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the mixture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

3. How do I make it vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the cheese you use is rennet-free if you want it to be completely vegetarian-friendly.

Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole

A healthy and delicious casserole combining broccoli and cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice Use white or brown rice as preferred.
• 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh broccoli is recommended for best flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the melted butter and milk until well combined.
4. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot as a main dish or a side dish. Pairs well with grilled chicken or fish and a green salad. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.