"Green Rice" Or Broccoli Rice
A creamy, cheesy broccoli rice casserole combining tender rice, chopped broccoli, mushrooms, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Comfort food at its best.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped celery and onions in butter until tender.
- Cook rice according to package instructions and set aside. Cook frozen broccoli as directed and drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cooked broccoli, Cheez Whiz, cream of chicken soup, sautéed celery and onions, and small jar of mushrooms.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly and pour into a 9 x 14-inch casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can work well. For added flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or mix in cooked chicken for a heartier dish. Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a nutritious and flavorful side to your meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables like Broccoli With Parmesan Sauce. It also makes a great side for a potluck or family gathering, sure to please a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring it stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Green Rice" Or Broccoli Rice contains roughly 491 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 800mg per serving (35% 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, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Blanch it briefly in boiling water to soften before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! You can use a cream of mushroom soup or a homemade creamy vegetable soup to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly. This will still provide a rich flavor and creamy texture to the casserole.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the casserole mixture. You can also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice with their meals.
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).