Green Rice And Broccoli
Green Rice and Broccoli offers a creamy, cheesy comfort food experience with a vibrant green hue from the broccoli. Perfect for a quick family dinner, it combines tender rice, savory Cheez Whiz, and hearty broccoli, baked to perfection for a warm, satisfying meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice, Cheez Whiz, cream of mushroom soup, melted margarine, and cooked drained broccoli in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of cream of mushroom soup. You can also substitute fresh broccoli if you prefer, just steam it lightly before adding. To enhance the flavor, add garlic powder or onion powder. If you want a bit of crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking, which gives a nice contrast to the creamy base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a comforting side alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It pairs beautifully with Shredded Potato Pancakes for a hearty meal. You can also add a fresh salad for a balanced plate. For a vegetarian twist, serve with a side of baked beans or a vegetable medley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Rice And Broccoli contains roughly 1011 calories, with 7g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice as a healthier alternative. Just be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook, so ensure it is fully cooked before mixing it into the dish. The texture may be slightly nuttier, which can complement the cheese and broccoli well.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute Cheez Whiz with a plant-based cheese spread and use a vegan cream of mushroom soup. Replace margarine with vegan butter or olive oil. These substitutions will help you create a delicious vegan version of this comforting dish without losing flavor.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes, you can easily incorporate cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for added protein. Simply mix in your choice of protein with the other ingredients before baking. This addition makes the dish more filling and transforms it into a complete 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).