Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Craving a comforting, cheesy side dish that’s both delicious and made from scratch? Look no further! This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe is a winner, crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients. Say goodbye to canned soups and hello to a flavorful, homemade delight. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
This cheesy broccoli rice casserole is the perfect addition to any holiday meal or family gathering, and it can even be transformed into a complete meal by adding cooked chicken or ham. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender broccoli and fluffy rice creates a satisfying and comforting dish that everyone will love. Skip the processed ingredients and create a casserole that’s both delicious and nutritious.
I personally love serving it alongside apple cider glazed ham for a truly unforgettable holiday feast. But don’t limit yourself! You can also stir in some cooked chicken, leftover turkey, or even crumbled bacon to transform this side dish into a complete and satisfying dinner. The possibilities are endless!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Broccoli Rice Casserole
- From Scratch Goodness: Made with real ingredients, avoiding processed canned soups.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal as a holiday side dish or a comforting weeknight meal.
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or cheeses for a personalized touch.
- Easy to Make: Simple instructions and readily available ingredients make this recipe a breeze.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy flavor and tender broccoli.
Ingredient Notes for the Best Broccoli Rice Casserole
See the recipe card below for ingredient quantities and complete instructions.
Let’s break down the key ingredients and why they matter in creating the perfect Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole:
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is highly recommended. While frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch, the texture and flavor are superior with fresh. Make sure to cook the broccoli slightly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s tender. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy.
- Rice: I prefer Jasmine rice for its delicate aroma and slightly sticky texture, but any long-grain white rice will work well. Brown rice can also be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and will result in a chewier texture. Ensure the rice is cooked according to package directions before incorporating it into the casserole.
- Cheese: The cheese is where the magic happens! I love using a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a balance of flavor and cheesy pull. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Parmesan for added depth. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a smoother texture than pre-shredded cheese.
- Heavy Cream and Evaporated Milk: These two create the super rich and creamy base for the entire casserole and really bring it to another level of flavor.
- Onion and Garlic: This dynamic duo forms the aromatic foundation of the casserole, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Sautéing them in butter before adding the flour creates a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: The flour acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring it’s nice and creamy rather than thin and watery. Be sure to cook the flour with the butter for a few minutes to remove any raw flour taste.
Top Tips for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Perfection
Want to take your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole to the next level? Here are some insider tips to ensure a truly unforgettable dish:
- Don’t Skip the Broccoli Prep: Whether you choose fresh or frozen broccoli, ensure it’s properly cooked before adding it to the casserole. Steaming, boiling, or roasting are all great options. Just avoid overcooking it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Cheese Please!: For the ultimate cheese pull, mozzarella is your best friend. Combine it with cheddar for a perfect balance of flavor and gooeyness.
- Sauce Savvy: The creamy sauce is the heart of the casserole. Stir it frequently while cooking to prevent burning or sticking to the pan. A smooth, velvety sauce is key to a delightful final product.
- Season to Taste: After mixing the rice, broccoli, and sauce, take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning. Salt and pepper are essential, but don’t be afraid to add other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Crispy Topping: For a golden brown, crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole to enjoy its deliciousness again:
If you have any leftover cheesy broccoli rice casserole, allow it to cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. When properly stored, the casserole will maintain its flavor and texture.
To reheat, Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through. This ensures that the casserole is evenly heated without drying out. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk or cream before heating and check for seasoning after adding cream or milk and add more salt if needed.
Tried This Recipe?
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More Side Dish Recipes You’ll Enjoy…
Looking for more delicious side dish inspiration? Check out these other fantastic recipes:
- Creamed Corn Souffle: A light and airy twist on a classic comfort food.
- Bourbon Candied Yams: Sweet, boozy, and utterly irresistible.
- Stovetop Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and ready in minutes.
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes: A flavorful and healthy side dish.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
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