Broccoli And Cheese With Rice
Creamy broccoli and cheese rice casserole combines tender broccoli, melted Cheez Whiz, and savory vegetables for a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onion and celery in margarine until softened.
- Add Cheez Whiz and cook until melted and well combined.
- Combine the sautéed mix with frozen broccoli and condensed soup, stirring well.
- Stir in uncooked Minute rice until evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased 11 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion and celery. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce for a more natural taste, or use a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version. If you have leftover cooked rice, it can be mixed in directly, adjusting the liquid accordingly to ensure proper consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a vegetarian option, serve with roasted vegetables. This recipe is also a great side for a potluck or gathering, complementing other dishes like Bonnie'S Chocolate Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Cheese With Rice contains roughly 552 calories, with 10g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1126mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
* % 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 blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender before adding it to the mixture. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crunchiness in the final dish.
Is there a substitute for Minute rice?
If you prefer not to use Minute rice, you can opt for regular long-grain rice, but be sure to cook it according to package instructions before mixing it in. This may change the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on the dish as it cooks.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).