Rice And Broccoli
A comforting baked rice and broccoli casserole with cheesy Parmesan topping, perfect for wholesome family dinners or casual gatherings, combining creamy cottage cheese and crispy crumbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix cooked rice, cottage cheese, cooked and drained chopped broccoli, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, and dried basil in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Combine crushed cornflake crumbs with melted margarine and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese, which will add a richer flavor. Fresh broccoli can be substituted for frozen if you prefer a crunchier texture. To enhance flavors, sauté the onion before mixing it in. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of cornflake crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rice and Broccoli casserole as a main dish or as a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Adding a simple green salad on the side complements the dish well and brings freshness. For a vegetarian dinner, consider serving it alongside a light vegetable soup or browse more vegetarian recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, heating at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Broccoli contains roughly 194 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe. Just be aware that brown rice may require a longer cooking time, so ensure it is fully cooked before mixing with other ingredients.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a plant-based yogurt or tofu instead of cottage cheese. Make sure to check the labels to ensure they are suitable for your dietary needs.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
To boost the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or fresh minced garlic along with the onion. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives before baking for an extra layer of taste.
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).