Broccoli And Rice With Cheese
A creamy, cheesy broccoli and rice casserole that's perfect for family dinners, combining tender broccoli, flavorful cheese, and comforting rice in a quick, baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cooked and drained broccoli and rice while hot.
- Add the margarine, Cheez Whiz, and soup to the mixture.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a blend of shredded cheddar and cream cheese. If you prefer a healthier option, try using brown rice instead of white rice. Adding garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the flavor. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dish. For a crispy topping, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs over the casserole before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli and Rice with Cheese as a comforting side dish or a main course. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or topping with extra cheese before baking. This dish is perfect for potlucks or as a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help retain the dish's original texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Rice With Cheese contains roughly 651 calories, with 10g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1487mg per serving (65% 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 mixing it with the rice. Make sure to chop it into small pieces to ensure even cooking in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup, and ensure the Cheez Whiz is vegetarian-friendly. This will keep the dish delicious and suitable for vegetarians.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix everything and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).