Broccoli-Minute Rice
A creamy, cheesy broccoli rice bake that turns simple pantry staples into a comforting side dish, perfect for busy weeknights and family favorites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour hot water over the frozen broccoli and let it steam briefly.
- Drain the broccoli well.
- In a mixing bowl combine the Minute rice, Cheez Whiz, cream of chicken soup, milk, and melted butter.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup of Cheez Whiz or substitute it with a different cheese sauce. If you want to boost the nutrition, you can mix in some cooked chicken or even swap the cream of chicken soup for a cream of mushroom soup. For a bit of crunch, try adding some toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with Pan Roasted Baby Carrots for a well-rounded meal. Serve it alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a nutritious dinner. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or pairing it with Chicken And Artichoke Saute to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Minute Rice contains roughly 533 calories, with 9g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 811mg per serving (35% 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. Simply steam it until tender, then chop it and add it to the mixture. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. This will still provide a creamy consistency without the chicken.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture before baking. Alternatively, serve with a side of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving.
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).