Rice And Broccoli Bake
A comforting baked rice and broccoli casserole with creamy mushroom and chicken flavors, perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals that satisfy and nourish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped onion (and chopped celery if available) in butter until tender.
- Add the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chopped broccoli, and Cheez Whiz to the sautéed onions and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or broth to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with shredded cheese if you prefer a different flavor. If you have leftover roasted chicken, it can be mixed in for added protein. Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice and Broccoli Bake is a great side dish for grilled chicken or a flavorful main course on its own. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to create a complete meal. It also works well alongside other American recipes like Chicken Casserole for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Broccoli Bake contains roughly 519 calories, with 12g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1457mg per serving (63% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish to prevent excess moisture. This will ensure that your bake has the right consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble it in the baking dish and bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
What can I serve with this bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a light fish dish. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty green salad. You can also consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal.
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).