Broccoli And Cheese Rice
A comforting broccoli and cheese casserole combining tender broccoli, rice, and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners and cheese lovers seeking a hearty, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sear chopped green onions and chopped celery in a thick skillet.
- Add cooked chopped frozen broccoli and cooked rice to the skillet.
- Mix in the can of cream of celery soup, Cheez Whiz, and milk.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until it bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also swap the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce for a more gourmet touch. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating garlic or spices like paprika. For a vegetarian twist, replace the cream of celery soup with a homemade cream of mushroom soup. This dish works great as a versatile side or main.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli And Cheese Rice pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad, like Pear And Cheese Salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. It also makes a fantastic side for holiday gatherings, complementing other comfort foods.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Cheese Rice contains roughly 607 calories, with 14g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2253mg per serving (98% 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 skillet. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Fresh broccoli will also add vibrant color to your meal.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cream of celery soup?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free cream of celery soup in most grocery stores, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener. This way, you can enjoy the dish without gluten.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper with the other ingredients. You can also top with crushed red pepper flakes before baking for an extra kick.
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).