Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe

Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting and wholesome dish that combines the goodness of fresh broccoli, tender rice, and creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection.

This classic recipe is a beloved favorite in many households, cherished for its simplicity, versatility, and satisfying flavors.

Whether served as a hearty side dish or a filling main course, the combination of nutritious broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that appeals to both young and old alike.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this Broccoli and Rice Casserole is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe

Broccoli and rice casserole is a delicious and easy dish that can be made with pantry staples. It is creamy, cheesy, and comforting, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Here is how you can make it:

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter	1/4 cup
Onion	1, chopped
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
All-purpose flour	1/4 cup
Chicken broth	2 cups
Milk	1 cup
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Cheddar cheese	2 cups, shredded
Cooked rice	3 cups
Frozen broccoli	16 oz, thawed and drained
Bread crumbs	1/4 cup

Directions

Preparing the Baking Dish:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. Sauteing Onions and Garlic:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
   • Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
   • Cook the onion and garlic until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Adding and Cooking the Flour:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onion and garlic.
   • Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook the flour and remove any raw taste.
3. Whisking in the Liquid:
   • Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
4. Thickening the Sauce:
   • Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 5 minutes or until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally.
   • The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Seasoning and Adding Cheese:
   • Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste.
   • Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Mixing Rice and Broccoli:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and steamed broccoli florets. Toss them together until well mixed.
2. Layering in the Baking Dish:
   • Spread the rice and broccoli mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Pouring Cheese Sauce:
   • Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the rice and broccoli mixture in the baking dish, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Topping with Cheese and Bread Crumbs:
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
   • Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for added texture and crunch.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Bake Time:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
2. Serve Warm:
   • Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Broccoli and Rice Casserole as a delightful main course or side dish!

Conclusion

This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and cheese, and it can be customized with different vegetables, meats, or cheeses.

You can also make it ahead and refrigerate or freeze it until ready to bake. It is a family-friendly and satisfying meal that everyone will love.