Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish combining tender broccoli, creamy mushroom soup, and sharp cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil or butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2–3 minutes to soften, then drain. If using frozen broccoli, simply thaw and drain any excess water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, prepared broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and the optional paprika. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier, whole grain option.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Blanching broccoli helps keep it tender yet crisp—avoid overcooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or mushrooms to enhance nutrition.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
