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If you are craving a warm, comforting dish that blends fresh greens with creamy indulgence, this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful medley of tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and rich cheeses all baked together into a harmonious casserole that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, this dish has become a trusted favorite for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating this delicious Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe. Each component adds its own magic, from the crisp-tender broccoli that gives color and freshness, to the smooth melted Velveeta that delivers creamy richness, and the crunchy water chestnuts that provide a delightful texture contrast.
- Frozen broccoli (12.6 ounces): Using frozen broccoli means convenience without sacrificing that vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
- Minute rice (1½ cups): This quick-cooking rice helps keep the preparation time minimal while offering a fluffy base.
- Water chestnuts (8 ounces, canned): Adds a subtle crunch that brightens each bite.
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces, canned or homemade): Acts as a rich, savory binder for all the ingredients.
- Milk (10.5 ounces): Measured with the soup can, milk balances the casserole’s creaminess and helps it bake perfectly.
- Velveeta cheese (¾ pound): The star of meltiness that gives the casserole its luscious, gooey texture.
- Freshly shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sprinkled on top for a beautifully browned, flavorful crust.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
Start by cooking the frozen broccoli according to the package directions and make sure to drain it thoroughly so the casserole won’t turn soggy. Properly drained broccoli keeps the dish nice and firm, maintaining its bright color and ensuring every spoonful has a fresh vegetable bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Minute Rice
Next, prepare the minute rice using 1 cup of water as per the instructions on the package. Minute rice cooks quickly, which means you’ll have a fluffy and perfect grain base ready to mix without any fuss or delay.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the cooked broccoli, rice, drained water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Velveeta cheese cut into small pieces. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until you create a creamy, homogenous mixture that promises comforting, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This size is perfect for spreading the casserole in a single layer, ensuring even cooking. Once spread, sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese over the top for the ultimate golden and bubbly finish.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 45 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbling around the edges. The baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheese topping to develop a mouth-watering golden crust.
Step 6: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once out of the oven, give the casserole a few minutes to cool slightly. This brief rest helps it set just enough to make serving easier, while still remaining delightfully warm and gooey.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra something on top can bring your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe from great to spectacular. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh aroma that contrasts delightfully with the creamy cheese. For an added textural surprise, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts can add crunch and depth.
Side Dishes
This casserole is so satisfying on its own, but you can make your meal feel complete with light sides like a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted root vegetables that add earthiness and variety. A fresh fruit salad also complements the savory, cheesy notes perfectly by bringing a hint of sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just add a fun twist, try serving your Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for perfectly portioned, visually appealing servings. Another idea is to scoop the casserole on top of baked potatoes or inside bell pepper halves, turning it into a dynamic and photogenic meal heightening the meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly cooled and covered, it retains its creamy texture and flavorful appeal, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too! To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to label with the date so you can enjoy it at its best. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, warm your casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before reheating can refresh the cheesy topping beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works wonderfully if you steam or blanch it first to soften it before mixing it into the casserole. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a substitute for Velveeta cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar or use a good-quality processed cheese that melts smoothly to keep the casserole creamy.
Can this casserole be made dairy-free?
To adapt this recipe for dairy-free diets, use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and dairy-free cheeses that melt well. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may shift slightly.
How spicy is this dish?
The Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe is mild and comforting, making it perfect for all ages and palates. However, you can always add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you want a gentle kick.
What type of rice works best?
Minute rice is recommended for this recipe because of its quick cooking time and fluffy texture that blends seamlessly with the casserole. You can experiment with white or brown rice but adjust liquid and cooking times accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe truly feels like a warm, cheesy embrace on chilly days or whenever you need a little extra coziness at the dinner table. Its blend of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to whip up you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will become one of your go-to comfort foods—guaranteed to bring smiles every time.
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Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole, also known as Green Rice Casserole, combines tender broccoli, creamy Velveeta, cheddar cheese, and a savory mushroom soup base baked to bubbly perfection. An easy and satisfying side dish or vegetarian main that comes together quickly and pleases the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12.6 ounces frozen broccoli (about 4 cups)
- 1½ cups minute rice
- 8 ounces water chestnuts (1 can)
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade, 1 can)
- 10.5 ounces milk (use the soup can to measure)
- ¾ pound Velveeta cheese (about 3 inches piece)
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Broccoli: Cook the frozen broccoli according to the package directions, usually steaming or microwaving until tender, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Prepare the Rice: Cook the minute rice in 1 cup of water according to package instructions, typically by boiling or simmering, until fully tender.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cooked rice, drained water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Velveeta cheese cut into small cubes. Stir well to create a uniform mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the top with the freshly shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking to set, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can substitute whole milk with half-and-half or cream.
- If preferred, fresh broccoli can be used but adjust cooking time accordingly until tender.
- To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is certified gluten-free and use gluten-free minute rice.
- Velveeta cheese adds a smooth melt, but you can replace it with processed cheese of choice if desired.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
