Broccoli And Rice Bake
A comforting broccoli and rice bake with creamy mushroom soup and Cheez Whiz, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering savory flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped celery and onion in a frying pan in melted margarine until golden.
- Combine mushroom soup, water, and Cheez Whiz in a bowl.
- Thaw the frozen broccoli in water in a saucepan until just thawed, about 2 minutes.
- Cook the rice according to package directions.
- Combine all ingredients and place in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more Cheez Whiz or substituting with a cream cheese blend. If you want a healthier version, try using olive oil instead of margarine and swapping out the Cheez Whiz for a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add spices like garlic powder or pepper for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli and Rice Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp Napa Cabbage Salad or alongside some Golden Coins (Marinated Carrots) for a colorful plate. For a heartier meal, serve with grilled chicken or a side of tangy barbecue ribs. A glass of Mint Punch complements this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Rice Bake contains roughly 491 calories, with 12g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1005mg per serving (44% 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 before adding it to the dish. This will help retain its color and crunch, ensuring a fresh taste in your bake.
Is there a gluten-free option for the rice?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting Minute rice with gluten-free rice options available in stores, such as brown rice or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it is fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish and store it unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold 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).