Broccoli Rice Dish
A comforting broccoli rice casserole featuring tender broccoli, creamy Cheez Whiz, and savory mushroom soup, all baked to a golden finish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish combines hearty flavors with a cheesy twist, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw and drain the frozen chopped broccoli.
- Saute chopped onion in 3/4 stick of butter until softened.
- Mix the drained broccoli, cooked rice, Cheez Whiz, cream of mushroom soup, and sautéed onion together in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until thick and lightly browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or a different type of cheese if preferred. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try adding some diced bell peppers or using brown rice instead of white. This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice as well.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted chicken for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light soup for a cozy dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve with a side of sautéed mushrooms or a vegetable stir-fry. It can also be a delightful accompaniment to your favorite American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Broccoli Rice Dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven method will keep the top lightly browned.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Rice Dish contains roughly 368 calories, with 6g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% 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! Just steam or blanch the broccoli until tender before chopping it. This will give the dish a fresher flavor and texture. Make sure to drain any excess water to avoid a soggy mixture.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese to make the dish lighter. Additionally, using brown rice can enhance the nutritional profile while adding a nutty flavor.
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 before baking. When ready to serve, you can pop it in the oven straight 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).