Rice And Broccoli Dish
A comforting rice and broccoli casserole featuring creamy mushroom soup, melted cheese, and crispy cracker topping. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, it combines savory flavors with hearty textures, making it an easy and satisfying meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in melted margarine until tender.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup to the onion and margarine mixture.
- Cut up one-third of a small box of Velveeta or American cheese.
- Add the cheese to the onion and soup mixture and melt.
- Stir in 2 cups of cooked rice and 10 ounces of thawed and drained frozen broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Top with cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you want to add some protein, shredded chicken or cooked sausage can be included. For a lighter version, substitute margarine with olive oil and use low-fat cheese. This dish is versatile and can easily be adapted to fit vegetarian recipes by omitting any meat additions.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice and Broccoli Dish makes a hearty main course, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or baked fish. It also complements well with sides like Autumn Pudding or seasonal roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the dish moist. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Broccoli Dish contains roughly 351 calories, with 7g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes to soften before adding it to the dish. This will help retain its vibrant color and crispness. Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh broccoli may take slightly longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade version by combining equal parts of cream, milk, and sautéed mushrooms with a bit of flour to thicken. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup or a vegetable soup can work as substitutes, providing a different flavor profile while keeping the dish creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
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).