Broccoli Moureen
A creamy broccoli and rice casserole with cheesy goodness, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook frozen chopped broccoli according to package directions and drain.
- Saute chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Add cooked broccoli, Minute rice, cream of chicken soup, water, and Cheez Whiz to the onion and butter mixture.
- Mix well and transfer to a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions or adding some spices like paprika or black pepper. If you're out of Cheez Whiz, cream cheese or shredded cheddar can be great substitutes. You can also use brown rice instead of Minute rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Thawing the broccoli beforehand can help reduce cooking time in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Moureen is delicious on its own or served alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, you might pair it with Easy Chicken-Rice Dinner or a side of Sauteed Brussels Sprouts With Raisins. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavors as well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to prevent drying out, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Moureen contains roughly 831 calories, with 10g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% 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 adding it to the recipe. This will give your casserole a fresher taste and texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce. Additionally, replace Cheez Whiz with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or green chilies into the casserole. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
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).