Broccoli Cheez Whiz Rice Casserole
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with rice, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers. Savory flavors blend with tender vegetables in a hearty dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen chopped broccoli and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the can of cream of mushroom soup with half a can of water to the bowl.
- Stir in the Cheez Whiz and uncooked Minute rice.
- Add chopped onions, chopped celery, and salt to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Cut margarine into chunks and place over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier consistency, consider adding a bit more Cheez Whiz or using a different cheese blend. You can substitute fresh broccoli for the frozen variety, just blanch it first to ensure it cooks evenly. If you prefer a healthier twist, use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version. This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad, such as a refreshing Bob Evans Salad Dressing, or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a vegetable stir-fry. It's also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cheez Whiz Rice Casserole contains roughly 586 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2769mg per serving (120% 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 brown rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but remember that it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly and pre-cook the rice for about 10-15 minutes before mixing it into the casserole to ensure it cooks through during baking.
Is there a vegan alternative for Cheez Whiz?
Absolutely! You can use a homemade cashew cheese or a store-bought vegan cheese spread as a substitute for Cheez Whiz. This will keep the dish plant-based and still provide a creamy texture. Just be sure to check that your cream of mushroom soup is also vegan.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely and sauté briefly before adding them to the mixture to ensure they cook properly in the casserole.
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).