Great Green Rice!
A creamy, cheesy green rice casserole with broccoli, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and a vibrant green hue.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice, cooked and drained broccoli, cream of celery soup, Cheez Whiz, canned evaporated milk, and melted butter in a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with buttered bread or cracker crumbs.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more evaporated milk or even sour cream. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or nutritional yeast. You can also add other vegetables such as peas or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. This dish can also be made with brown rice for a more wholesome option.
Serving Suggestions
Great Green Rice makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken or fish, and it pairs beautifully with Mandarin Salad (Orange Goop) for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it appeals to both adults and kids alike.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in the microwave until warmed through, or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Green Rice! contains roughly 943 calories, with 10g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2542mg per serving (111% 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 dish. Fresh broccoli will add a lovely crunch and vibrant flavor to the recipe, making it even more delightful.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can enhance its flavor by using a vegetable-based cream soup instead of cream of celery. Additionally, you might want to add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time! Simply assemble it in the casserole dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).