Broccoli-Rice Cheese Bake
A comforting broccoli and rice bake layered with melted cheese and creamy mushroom and chicken soups, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and chopped celery in margarine or butter until tender.
- Cook rice and broccoli separately until done.
- Mix undiluted cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheese, sautéed onion, celery, and cooked rice to make the sauce.
- Season the mixture to taste with salt and pepper.
- Arrange frozen broccoli in a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese-rice mixture over the broccoli.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until the cheese melts and the dish is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce. If you prefer a healthier alternative, substitute brown rice for white rice. Fresh broccoli can also be used instead of frozen, just blanch it briefly before adding. Adjust the type of cheese used based on your preference; sharp cheddar works well here and enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Rice Cheese Bake pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or garlic knots. You can also top it with additional shredded cheese before baking for an extra cheesy finish. It's a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Rice Cheese Bake contains roughly 401 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 867mg per serving (38% 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 other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before mixing them into the cheese-rice mixture. This adds more flavor and nutrition to the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
Can I freeze the Broccoli-Rice Cheese Bake?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed until hot.
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).