Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole to bring comfort to your table. Broccoli cheese rice casserole is the perfect dish that combines creamy cheese, tender rice, and nutritious broccoli into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or meal prep for the week, this casserole never disappoints.

What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a meatless main course or pair it with your favorite protein for a well-rounded meal. It’s also an excellent way to get picky eaters to enjoy their greens—because who can say no to broccoli smothered in cheese?

With spring around the corner, this casserole is a great transition meal. It’s hearty enough for chilly nights but not too heavy as we move into warmer days. Plus, if you’re prepping for Easter or any family gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how you can whip it up in no time!

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to Make – This casserole comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly – Made with pantry staples like rice, cheese, and broccoli, it’s a great way to create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
• Family-Friendly – Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this dish thanks to the rich, cheesy goodness.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch in advance and reheat throughout the week for a hassle-free side or main dish.
• Customizable – Add protein like chicken or ham, swap cheeses, or mix in other veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredient List

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (chopped)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken or ham
• 1/2 cup crumbled bacon
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for extra flavor
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for added depth

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this casserole, you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan (for cooking rice if not pre-cooked)
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl (for steaming broccoli)
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil (for covering if needed)
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Rice – If you haven’t pre-cooked the rice, cook 1 cup of dry rice according to package instructions to yield 2 cups of cooked rice.
3. Steam the Broccoli – If using fresh broccoli, steam it for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant. If using frozen, let it thaw and drain any excess water.
4. Mix the Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, condensed soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate everything evenly.
5. Add Optional Ingredients – If you’re including extras like cooked chicken, bacon, or Parmesan cheese, fold them into the mixture.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish – Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Top with Cheese – Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, melty finish.
8. Bake – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Let it Cool – Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy – Dish out warm portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Rice Variations – Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
• Cheese Options – Use Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor twist.
• Soup Alternatives – Substitute cream of mushroom with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade béchamel sauce.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use a plant-based milk alternative and dairy-free cheese.
• Protein Additions – Add shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked ground turkey, or tofu for extra protein.
• Vegetable Add-ins – Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for additional texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish – Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• As a Side Dish – Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or baked salmon.
• For Potlucks – This casserole is perfect for sharing at gatherings and can be easily doubled for larger crowds.
• Toppings for Extra Crunch – Add crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions before baking.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze the unbaked or baked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating – Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. If reheating the entire dish, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQ

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing it in.

3. How can I make this healthier?
Use brown rice, reduced-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

4. Can I add more protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or even beans are great protein-packed additions.

Broccoli cheese rice casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for a weeknight dinner, a dish to bring to a gathering, or a way to get your family to eat more veggies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!