Broccoli Cheese Rice
Creamy broccoli cheese rice combines tender broccoli, cheesy Velveeta, and seasoned rice for a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped broccoli until tender.
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, melt margarine over medium heat.
- Add flour to the melted margarine and stir to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook for 1 minute then remove from heat.
- Add Velveeta cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked rice into the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- In a 13 x 9-inch pan, layer 1/3 of the rice mixture, 1/2 of the broccoli, another 1/3 rice mixture, remaining broccoli, and final 1/3 rice mixture.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes to brown the top if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, add a bit more cheese or a splash of cream to the sauce. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the roux. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for a different taste. This dish pairs beautifully with Biscuits For Dixie Fried Chicken for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a comforting main course or a side dish. It goes well with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with a light vegetable side or bread to soak up the creamy cheese sauce. This is a fantastic option for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of milk if the mixture seems dry. This helps maintain the creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cheese Rice contains roughly 1042 calories, with 23g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value) and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1331mg per serving (58% 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, fresh broccoli can be used. Just make sure to steam or blanch it until tender before layering it in the dish. This will ensure it cooks evenly during baking and retains its bright color and flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux. Additionally, ensure that the rice you use is certified gluten-free for a completely gluten-free dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to serve, you can bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).