Rice And Broccoli Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining rice and broccoli, perfect for a comforting family meal with rich flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine 1/2 stick of butter, cooked rice, chopped broccoli, Cheez Whiz, cream of mushroom soup, and onions in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Dot the top with the remaining 1/2 stick of butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of milk or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or shredded cheese for a fresher flavor. If you prefer, fresh broccoli can work well too; just steam it lightly before adding. For an extra kick, try adding some garlic powder or onion powder.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a comforting side dish for a family dinner and pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread. You can also explore more vegetarian recipes for additional ideas that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 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 convenience, but be sure to cover to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Broccoli Cheese Casserole contains roughly 894 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 cooked?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole. This will help prevent excess moisture in the dish, ensuring it bakes evenly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure that the rice you use is certified gluten-free. Most Minute rice varieties are gluten-free, but it's always good to double-check the packaging.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or even some beans for added protein. Just make sure any meat is cooked before adding it to the casserole for even baking.
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).