Rice, Broccoli, Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining rice, broccoli, and savory flavors, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners, easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice first; set aside.
- Chop celery and onions finely. Saute both in a small frying pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a 2-quart casserole dish, combine all ingredients and mix together.
- Cover and bake for 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or bell peppers when sautéing the celery and onions. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, you can substitute with shredded cheddar or a combination of your favorite cheeses. If you want a healthier twist, swap the cream of celery or chicken soup with a homemade version or use a low-sodium option. This dish can easily be customized like a traditional casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice, Broccoli, Cheese Casserole is delicious on its own but serves well with a side salad for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a heartwarming bowl of Southern Vegetable Soup. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the casserole appears dry, add a splash of broth before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice, Broccoli, Cheese Casserole contains roughly 352 calories, with 8g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1122mg per serving (49% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. After mixing all the ingredients, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bake it for a little longer if it’s going into the oven cold.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make your own using a roux and vegetable or chicken broth. For a vegetarian version, try using a homemade creamy mushroom soup or a white sauce with seasonings to achieve a similar flavor.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped broccoli, peas, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition and flavor. Just ensure the vegetables are cooked or sautéed beforehand, so they blend well into the casserole. This adaptability makes it a great option for experimenting with various combinations.
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).