Broccoli, Cheese And Rice Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli and rice casserole with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining tender rice, melted cheese, and nutritious broccoli.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook rice until tender.
- Melt butter in a large pan.
- Add onions or onion soup mix and cook until softened.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and Velveeta cheese, cooking until cheese has melted.
- Stir in chopped broccoli.
- Combine the mixture with cooked rice in a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Mix well and bake for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the Velveeta with any other cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. To boost the flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or sautéed mushrooms. If you prefer a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli, Cheese and Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a comforting family dinner, serve alongside Chicken Fold Overs or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave portions on medium power until hot. Cover with foil while reheating to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Cheese And Rice Casserole contains roughly 1325 calories, with 13g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1590mg per serving (69% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the mixture. This will help avoid excess moisture in the casserole, ensuring it bakes evenly and maintains the desired texture.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! To make this casserole vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup and omit any meat. You can also enhance the dish by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms. This will keep the flavors vibrant while accommodating vegetarian diets.
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).