Microwave Cheezy Broccoli
A creamy, cheesy broccoli and rice casserole that makes a comforting, quick meal perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place unopened packages of frozen broccoli on end in the microwave oven.
- Microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes, turning over after 2 minutes.
- Set broccoli aside to cool slightly.
- Combine cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, processed cheese food, salt, pepper, and chopped onion in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a microwave-safe dish.
- Microwave on high for about 5 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway through cooking.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the processed cheese food with shredded cheddar or a cheese blend for a more natural flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped onions or skip them entirely. To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium cream of chicken soup and adjust salt to taste. This dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This Microwave Cheezy Broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted meats for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad. It also makes a great side dish for gatherings, complementing dishes like Special Broccoli Casserole or Turkey Delight Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. If the mixture appears too thick upon reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Cheezy Broccoli contains roughly 481 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2281mg per serving (99% 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, you can use fresh broccoli! Just chop it into small pieces and steam it until tender before adding it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup. Ensure that the processed cheese food is also vegetarian-friendly, or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to cover it tightly. When ready to serve, microwave it until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
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).