My Broccoli And Rice Casserole
A hearty broccoli and rice casserole combining cheesy, creamy flavors with vegetables, perfect for family dinners or weeknight comfort food. Easy to prepare and bake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pan.
- Add the rice and hot water, then stir until well mixed.
- Add the thawed chopped broccoli, chopped onion, chopped celery, mushroom soup, Cheez Whiz, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Spread the mixture in a baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with the Cheez Whiz. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheese works well too. You can also use brown rice instead of Minute rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding cooked chicken can enhance the dish, making it a complete meal, similar to recipes like Simple And Delicious Chicken Divan.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a great standalone dish but pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken or pork. It's also wonderful as a side dish for gatherings, complementing other American recipes like Best Ever Potato Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Broccoli And Rice Casserole contains roughly 810 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2811mg per serving (122% 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 lightly steamed first to ensure it cooks properly in the casserole. This will help maintain its bright color and texture while providing the same great flavor.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you want a lighter option, you can make a homemade cream sauce with milk, flour, and seasonings to replace the mushroom soup. Alternatively, any creamy soup, like chicken or celery, can work as a substitute.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).