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Broccoli-Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 118 reviews

A comforting Broccoli-Rice Casserole featuring tender broccoli florets, savory cream of mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
  • 1 (16 oz.) package frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 cups shredded mild or medium cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Thaw the frozen broccoli florets and warm them in the microwave for about 5 minutes. Once heated, drain the broccoli very well to remove excess moisture. Cut any large florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution in the casserole.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the warm cooked rice, finely chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Gently fold in the drained broccoli florets, ensuring an even mix without breaking the pieces.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spoon the broccoli and rice mixture evenly into the dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust during baking.
  4. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top starts to develop golden brown spots, indicating it is perfectly melted and lightly crisped.
  5. Optional Broccoli Variation: You may substitute frozen chopped broccoli for the florets, although the recipe creator prefers using florets for better texture and appearance.
  6. Make-Ahead Instructions: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. After combining the broccoli mixture and topping with cheese, cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. When baking from cold, increase the baking time to 60 to 75 minutes. To prevent excessive browning of the cheese, cover the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking if needed.

Notes

  • Ensure broccoli is well drained before mixing to prevent a watery casserole.
  • Using mild or medium cheddar cheese affects the flavor intensity; medium provides a slightly sharper taste.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a certified gluten-free variety.
  • Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Adding a topping of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before the cheese could add extra crunch.

Keywords: Broccoli Rice Casserole, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole, Easy Vegetarian Casserole, Comfort Food, Baked Casserole

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe/