Broccoli With Rice Casserole
A comforting broccoli and rice casserole topped with crispy fried onions and cheesy Whiz, perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped frozen broccoli until tender.
- In a medium casserole dish, combine cooked broccoli, minute rice, cheese sauce, and 1 cup of water.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Add butter and stir to incorporate.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread Cheese Whiz and French fried onions on top.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or onions in the butter before mixing it into the casserole. If you don't have Cheese Whiz, a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can work as a substitute. You can also use brown rice instead of minute rice, but cooking time will need to be adjusted. This dish is perfect for those looking for easy vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli with rice casserole makes a hearty main dish, but you can serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting dessert, consider following this with a slice of Never Fail Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Rice Casserole contains roughly 211 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% 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 definitely use fresh broccoli. Just steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply bake it when you're ready to eat. It's perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, ham, or even turkey for extra protein. Just mix it in with the other ingredients before baking. This will make it a more filling meal.
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).