Why Make This Recipe
Ultimate Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This dish brings together creamy cheese, healthy broccoli, and hearty rice, creating a meal that is not only delicious but also satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe, ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, you can easily prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat!
How to Make Ultimate Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
Directions:
- Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C).
- Apply butter to a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Ensure you have 2 cups of fully cooked rice ready for mixing.
- Steam fresh broccoli until it is tender-crisp; if you are using frozen broccoli, ensure it is completely thawed and drained of moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the rice, broccoli, 1.5 cups of cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onions, and seasonings until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared dish and smooth it out into an even layer.
- Distribute the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
How to Serve Ultimate Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, right out of the oven. It makes a great main dish or a hearty side. Pair it with some grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also add extra cheese on top before serving if you want to make it even cheesier!
How to Store Ultimate Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, you can place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Ultimate Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
- Make sure the broccoli is not overcooked before mixing; it should still be slightly crunchy.
- You can use different types of cheese if you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- To save time, you can use leftover rice from a previous meal.
- For added flavor, sauté the onions before adding them to the casserole mix.
Variation
You can add protein to this casserole like shredded chicken or cooked sausage for a heartier meal. You can also throw in some other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking or after baking. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container.
3. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your breadcrumbs are gluten-free if you choose to use them.
Ultimate Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Ensure you have 2 cups of fully cooked rice ready.
- Steam fresh broccoli until tender-crisp or thaw and drain frozen broccoli.
- In a large bowl, combine rice, broccoli, 1.5 cups of cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese and optional breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.