If you are searching for the perfect comfort food, you have found it. This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is everything you want in a warm, satisfying dish. It is creamy, full of flavor, and has a wonderfully crunchy topping.
This is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table. It is great for a family dinner or as a side dish for a holiday meal. Let’s make something truly delicious together!
Jump To:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, what is not to love? This Broccoli Cheese Casserole Easy recipe is a true crowd pleaser. The ingredients are simple and probably already in your kitchen.
It is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main course or alongside chicken or pork. Plus, it is a fantastic way to get your family to eat more broccoli!
The creamy rice and cheese combined with the tender broccoli and crispy Panko topping create a wonderful texture and taste. It feels like a hug in a dish.
Ingredients
Here is what you will need to gather for this delicious casserole.
- 20 ounces broccoli florets, cut into bite sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 ¼ cups long grain white rice, not cooked
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 32 ounces chicken stock or broth, low sodium
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Casserole Topping
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Get Ready
First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Cook The Broccoli
Place your broccoli in a microwave safe bowl and cover it. Microwave for about 4 minutes until it is tender and bright green. Be careful not to overcook it!
You can also boil it in a pot of water for 4 minutes if you prefer. Just make sure to drain it well.
Step 3: Sauté The Aromatics
In a large skillet or dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them until they become soft, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes.
Now, stir in the uncooked rice and minced garlic. Keep stirring and cook for about one more minute until it smells fragrant.
Step 4: Cook The Rice
Pour in the chicken stock, half and half, and salt. Stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium low.
Let it cook, stirring often, until the rice is tender. This should take about 22 to 25 minutes. Once it is done, remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 5: Combine And Assemble
Carefully stir in your cooked broccoli. Then add the grated sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix it all gently until everything is evenly combined.
Transfer this wonderful mixture to your prepared baking dish. If you used an oven safe skillet, you can bake it right in there!
Step 6: Prepare The Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 7: Bake To Perfection
Bake the casserole for 15 to 20 minutes. You will know it is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How To Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers is simple. Once the casserole has cooled completely, cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container.
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you are ready to eat it again, just reheat it in the oven or microwave until it is warmed through.
Tips
For the best creamy texture, grate your own cheese. Pre shredded cheese often has coatings that prevent it from melting as smoothly.
Do not overcook the broccoli in the first step! It will continue to cook in the oven, and you want it to be tender, not mushy.
Want to save a dish? If your skillet is oven safe, you can assemble and bake the entire Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole right in it.
Conclusion
This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is a true keeper. It is a warm, filling, and flavorful dish that your whole family will appreciate.
Give this recipe a try the next time you need a comforting meal. It is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ
Can I Use A Different Kind Of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses for this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole.
Can I Add A Protein To This Casserole?
Yes, this is a great idea to make it a complete meal. Cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham would be a delicious addition. Just stir it in with the broccoli and cheese.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead Of Time?
You can assemble the casserole without the topping and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A warm and satisfying comfort food classic. This creamy broccoli rice casserole is full of flavor, topped with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, and great for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, cover and cook broccoli for about 4 minutes until tender-crisp. Alternatively, boil for 4 minutes and drain well.
- In a large skillet or dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 6-8 minutes until soft. Stir in the uncooked rice and garlic, and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock, half and half, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring often, for 22-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cooked broccoli, grated cheddar, and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese until combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the 8 tablespoons of melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best creamy texture, grate your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Be careful not to overcook the broccoli in the initial step; it will continue cooking in the oven.
To make this a one-pan meal, use a large, oven-safe skillet to assemble and bake the casserole directly.
Add cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham with the broccoli to make it a more complete meal.
Nutrition
Calories
Sugar
Fat
Carbs
