Lois Jane'S Broccoli And Rice
A comforting casserole blending broccoli, rice, and creamy cheese, topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and celery in butter until tender.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables, cooked rice, chopped broccoli, cubed Velveeta cheese, milk, and mushroom soup in a well-buttered baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top the casserole with bacon crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the Velveeta cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you want to add more veggies, diced bell peppers or peas work well. Make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli before mixing to ensure even cooking. This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty main dish alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Corn-And-Potato Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lois Jane'S Broccoli And Rice contains roughly 642 calories, with 14g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 944mg per serving (41% 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, but it should be blanched first to ensure it's tender when baked. Cut the broccoli into small florets and boil them for about 2-3 minutes, then immediately place them in ice water to stop the cooking process before adding them to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use a vegetarian mushroom soup. Additionally, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and texture. This will make the dish filling and nutritious while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure that the mushroom soup you use is labeled as gluten-free, or make your own. You can also use gluten-free rice and check the labels on any other packaged ingredients to avoid gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
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).