Rice And Broccoli Casserole
This Rice and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender rice, sautéed onions, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with gooey Cheez Whiz. It's a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for families or anyone looking for a quick and delicious vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil broccoli.
- Cook rice and place it in a casserole dish.
- Sauté onions in oleo and pour over the rice.
- Spread Cheez Whiz on top.
- Pour cream of mushroom soup over everything.
- Bake in a medium oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or vegetable broth to the casserole before baking. If you want to make this dish more colorful and nutritious, feel free to mix in some sautéed bell peppers or carrots. If you don’t have Cheez Whiz, you can substitute with a processed cheese spread or even shredded cheddar. This dish is also versatile; experiment with different types of rice, such as brown or jasmine.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice and Broccoli Casserole is a hearty main dish but pairs beautifully with a light salad, like Romaine And Cucumber Salad, for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or baked fish for a well-rounded meal. It’s also a great side for holiday gatherings and family dinners, complementing dishes like Harvest Corn.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 375 calories, with 11g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated throughout.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Rice and Broccoli Casserole is a great option for vegetarian recipes. The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a nutritious choice for those following a vegetarian diet. Just make sure to check the labels on the Cheez Whiz and cream of mushroom soup for any hidden animal products.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Definitely! You can enhance this dish by adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian protein boost. Just mix the protein into the casserole before baking, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for a satisfying and complete 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).