Broccoli And Cheese Casserole(Yields 12 Servings)
A creamy broccoli and cheese casserole combining tender rice, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with comforting, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and celery in margarine.
- Add cooked rice, chopped broccoli, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, and evaporated milk; mix well.
- Pour mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Spoon Cheez Whiz or grated Cheddar cheese on top, or sprinkle grated cheese over the mixture.
- Layer rice and broccoli mixture with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Optional: add slivered almonds on top before baking for added flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using cooked chicken or turkey instead of just rice; it pairs beautifully with Chicken And Bouillon. You can also substitute the Cheez Whiz with a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a richer taste. If you're looking for a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with crusty bread for a comforting dinner. It also makes a great side dish for roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a hearty lunch. For an extra crunch, top with slivered almonds before baking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Ensure it’s heated to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Cheese Casserole(Yields 12 Servings) contains roughly 295 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 699mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture in the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Simply replace the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian alternative and ensure the Cheez Whiz is suitable for vegetarians. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).