Broccoli Rice Medley
A creamy, cheesy broccoli rice casserole combining tender rice, flavorful onion, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a covered casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using brown rice instead of Minute rice, which will require additional cooking time. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or a vegan cheese alternative for a twist. If you want to add more flavor, try including garlic powder or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli rice medley makes a hearty side dish for grilled chicken or baked fish. It pairs beautifully with the Cranberry Ripple Cake for dessert, adding a sweet finish to your meal. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli rice medley in a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Rice Medley contains roughly 800 calories, with 11g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 882mg 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam or blanch it before mixing with the other ingredients to ensure it cooks through in the oven. Fresh broccoli will provide a crunchier texture that can enhance the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking, or increase the baking time slightly if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the broccoli rice medley?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).