Rice Broccoli
A creamy, comforting broccoli and rice casserole with tender vegetables and cheesy flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and celery in margarine until tender.
- Cook broccoli as directed on the package, using 1/2 cup of water.
- Combine cooked broccoli, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, Cheez Whiz, and cooked rice in a bowl and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Optional: add water chestnuts before baking.
- Regular rice can be used if cooked separately before adding.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding extra Cheez Whiz or a splash more milk. If you don’t have frozen broccoli, fresh broccoli can be blanched and used instead. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version. Sautéing vegetables until they are slightly browned will enhance the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice Broccoli dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added protein, consider serving with grilled chicken or a side of baked marinated chicken breasts. It also works well as a side dish with hearty entrees like Pan Fried Chicken or Chicken Tetrazzini Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short increments until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Broccoli contains roughly 947 calories, with 11g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1569mg per serving (68% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese flavor, shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheese can be used as a substitute for Cheez Whiz. Just make sure to melt it gently before mixing it into the casserole for a smooth consistency.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using brown rice instead of Minute rice for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of margarine used or replace it with olive oil. Adding extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, can also boost the nutritional value.
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).