Cheesy Broccoli And Rice
A comforting cheesy broccoli and rice casserole with creamy mushroom and celery soups, perfect for a quick family dinner or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325° to 350° F.
- Mix the can of celery soup, can of mushroom soup, cooked rice, frozen broccoli, and melted Velveeta cheese in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the canned soups with homemade versions if time allows. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for a crunchier texture. If Velveeta isn't available, any creamy cheese like cream cheese or cheddar can work, but adjust quantities to taste. To enhance the dish, add spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy broccoli and rice dish as a hearty side to grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs beautifully with Mutt'S Cheese Wafers for a complete meal. For a vegetarian twist, enjoy it as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if the mixture seems dry. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli And Rice contains roughly 238 calories, with 11g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% 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 different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend can work well, but ensure they melt smoothly. If using a sharper cheese, consider adding a bit of cream to maintain creaminess in the dish.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white for added fiber. You can also increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables like carrots or spinach to enhance nutritional value without compromising flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it's 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).