Green Rice(Broccoli And Rice Casserole)
A creamy, cheesy broccoli and rice casserole with vibrant green flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks, combining tender broccoli, rich cheese, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and celery in butter until tender, while thawing broccoli in a small amount of boiling water.
- Add cream of chicken soup and Cheez Whiz to the sautéed vegetables. Simmer for about a minute.
- Drain well the thawed broccoli and add it to the mixture.
- Mix in cooked rice and seasonings as desired.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake in a 375°F oven for about 20 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Fresh broccoli can also be used instead of frozen; just steam it lightly before adding.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Rice casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Rice(Broccoli And Rice Casserole) contains roughly 353 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2011mg per serving (87% 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 in this recipe. Just steam it lightly before adding it to the sautéed vegetables to ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian cream soup or a homemade equivalent. You can also use vegetable broth for added flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream soup or make your own with a gluten-free roux. Ensure that the rice you use is certified gluten-free, and check the labels on the Cheez Whiz and other ingredients.
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).