Rice Broccoli And Cheese Casserole
This Rice Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that combines a colorful mix of frozen vegetables with creamy Cheez Whiz and rice. It's a cheesy delight that pairs well with any main course and is perfect for family meals or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cooked and drained broccoli, cauliflower, and carrot mixture, Cheez Whiz, uncooked Minute rice, and cream of celery soup.
- Pour the mixture into a glass baking dish, top with bread crumbs and pats of butter.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you prefer a different flavor, substitute Cheez Whiz with shredded cheddar cheese or a cheese sauce. You can also mix in cooked chicken for added protein, making it a heartier dish. Experiment with spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs nicely with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or as a side dish to your favorite barbecue. It also makes for a great potluck dish and can be complemented with some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
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 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Broccoli And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 369 calories, with 7g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 for this casserole?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh broccoli! Just make sure to steam or blanch it slightly before mixing it into the casserole. This will ensure that the broccoli cooks evenly and doesn't remain too crunchy during baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it as instructed, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Rice Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat. However, always check the labels of your ingredients, especially the cream of celery soup and Cheez Whiz, to ensure they are vegetarian-friendly.
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).