![- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown) - 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent) - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (any color) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil For those with dietary needs, you can make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free rice and find a gluten-free cream soup. I recommend brands like Pacific Foods for a great soup option. If you want a healthier twist, try brown rice instead of white. It adds a nice nutty flavor and holds up well in the casserole. For the cheese, I suggest using a good quality cheddar. Brands like Tillamook or Cabot provide rich taste and melt well. You can also mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream and a dairy-free cheese. This mix of ingredients makes the casserole creamy and full of flavor. It’s a comfort food that feels special while being simple to prepare. You can find the full recipe [here]. To start, cook the rice as the package says. You can use white or brown rice. This part is simple. While the rice cooks, chop the onion and bell pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook them until soft, which takes about five minutes. Next, toss in the broccoli florets. Cook them for three to four minutes until they’re bright green and tender. Once everything is cooked, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the rice, sautéed veggies, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix all the ingredients well. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture should be creamy and packed with flavor. Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil. Pour your rice mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. If you like a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs now. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. When done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for five to ten minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole! You can find the full recipe [Full Recipe]. To make your cheesy broccoli rice casserole shine, start with the rice. Use a rice cooker for perfectly cooked rice. If you don’t have one, follow package instructions closely. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove extra starch. This helps keep the rice fluffy. Next, let’s talk about the broccoli. If you use fresh broccoli, steam it just until bright green. For frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well. This keeps the casserole from getting watery. For the cheese melt, shred your cheese instead of using pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. You want that gooey, stretchy cheese in every bite. One common mistake is overcooking the broccoli. It should be tender, but still crisp. If you cook it too long, it can get mushy in the casserole. Another mistake is not mixing well. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly combined. This ensures each spoonful is packed with flavor. To avoid a soggy casserole, do not skip draining excess liquid from the vegetables. Also, don’t cover the casserole while baking. This allows steam to escape and keeps your topping crispy. For the best results, follow these tips and tricks. You’ll end up with a creamy and flavorful dish that everyone will love! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} You can mix things up with different veggies in your casserole. Try adding peas, carrots, or corn. These add color and flavor. You can also swap the broccoli for cauliflower if you prefer. For cheese, cheddar is a classic, but you can use mozzarella or gouda too. Each cheese gives a unique taste. If you want a twist, add some cream cheese for extra creaminess. Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or a homemade cream sauce. These choices can change the whole dish. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rice and a gluten-free cream soup. This way, everyone can enjoy it. For a vegan version, replace the cheese with a plant-based cheese and use coconut milk instead of regular milk. You can also skip the cream soup or make a vegan one. If you're watching carbs, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This swap cuts down on carbs and keeps it tasty. These variations let you enjoy the dish while sticking to your diet. To keep your cheesy broccoli rice casserole fresh, follow these easy steps. First, let the casserole cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation in your storage container. Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will protect it from freezer burn. When stored properly, your casserole can last for about three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy your leftover casserole, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes or until it is hot. If you prefer the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between. To keep the casserole moist, add a splash of milk before reheating. This will help restore creaminess and keep it delicious. What can I serve with cheesy broccoli rice casserole? You can serve this casserole with a simple salad or garlic bread. Both pair well with its creamy flavor. You might also enjoy it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. The casserole is rich and filling, so lighter sides work best. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day before. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you are ready, bake it straight from the fridge. It may need a few extra minutes in the oven. How do I know the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out hot. If you see steam rising, it’s ready to enjoy! Can I use leftover rice for this recipe? Yes, leftover rice works great! It saves time and adds extra flavor. Just make sure to break up any clumps before mixing it in. This will help it combine well with the other ingredients. For the full recipe, check the detailed steps listed above. You learned how to make a delicious cheesy broccoli rice casserole. We covered the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect results. You now know how to store leftovers and avoid common mistakes. This dish is easy to modify for different diets. Remember, adding your twist can make it special. Enjoy your cooking, and share this tasty recipe with others who love comfort food!](https://emmasdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/8c9739aa-e247-4346-b2de-9d157cc7994f-250x250.webp)
- Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole! This creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion and super easy to prepare. Packed with fresh broccoli, hearty rice, and melty cheese, it's comfort food the whole family will love. Explore tips for perfecting your casserole, delicious variations, and smart storage solutions to enjoy leftovers. Click through to discover the full recipe and make this tasty dish today!