Green Rice Bake(Microwave)
A quick and cheesy green rice bake with broccoli and onions, perfect for a comforting microwave meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-quart micro-proof casserole, place 2 tablespoons water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and frozen chopped broccoli.
- Cover and cook on High (maximum power) for 5 minutes, stirring once during cooking to break up pieces.
- In a 1 1/2-quart micro-proof casserole, cook chopped onions in butter on High for 4 minutes.
- Stir in condensed cream of mushroom soup, cooked rice, and cooked broccoli.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and cook on High for 10 minutes, rotating the dish 1/4 turn after 5 minutes of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture before cooking. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. Fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen; just steam it slightly before adding to the dish. This recipe is also a great way to incorporate leftover cooked vegetables you may have.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Rice Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a hearty lentil salad. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a side dish for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also add a bit of water or milk to prevent it from drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw it before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Rice Bake(Microwave) contains roughly 786 calories, with 15g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1182mg per serving (51% 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, but be aware that it may require a longer cooking time and adjustments in water. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to ensure even cooking.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan cream of mushroom soup. Replace the cheese with a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast for added flavor. This dish can easily fit into vegetarian recipes.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when combining the ingredients. You could also serve it with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.
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).