If you are searching for a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese, the satisfying texture of rice, and the fresh taste of broccoli, this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors that melts beautifully in your mouth while being incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weekday dinner or a hearty side for a holiday feast, this casserole brings warmth and a vibrant green touch to your table that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each element plays an essential role, contributing flavors, creaminess, and texture that come together in a truly satisfying dish. Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition, creamy Velveeta and sharp cheddar bring luscious cheese flavor, and minute rice creates the perfect base that soaks up every bit of goodness.
- 12.6 ounces frozen broccoli: Use a bag with about 4 cups to keep the green fresh and vibrant.
- 1½ cups minute rice: Quick-cooking and fluffy, it’s perfect for this casserole.
- 8 ounces water chestnuts: Adds a pleasant crunch and mild sweetness.
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup: Provides that classic creamy base with a touch of earthiness.
- 10.5 ounces milk: Use the soup can to measure; it helps thin the mixture just right.
- ¾ pound Velveeta cheese: About a 3-inch block; melts wonderfully and adds velvety richness.
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
Start by cooking the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions. This ensures the broccoli is tender but still vibrant and fresh in flavor. Once cooked, drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
Next, cook your minute rice using 1 cup of water. This quick-cooking rice will provide a fluffy and light texture that soaks up the creamy cheese mixture beautifully, balancing the dish perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Key Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cooked rice, drained water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Velveeta cheese cut into small cubes. Mixing these thoroughly is important because it lets all the flavors blend while ensuring the cheese distributes evenly throughout.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese on top. This final cheese layer will create a delightful golden crust after baking, adding both texture and extra cheesy flavor.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake your casserole in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and slightly golden. This step locks in the flavors and ensures a luscious, comforting dish.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a subtle brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness and crunch of a salad or the caramelized flavors of roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the creamy texture and cheesy richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for cute, personalized portions. You can also add a crunchy breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter and toasted it under the broiler for a crispy finish that will impress everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a great option to prepare in advance or enjoy as comforting leftovers.
Freezing
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer the casserole (before baking) into a freezer-safe container, cover it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it gently in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For leftovers, microwaving individual portions works well too, just watch to avoid drying out the casserole.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works wonderfully here. Just blanch it briefly in boiling water to soften before adding it to the casserole. It will add a slightly fresher taste but either way is delicious.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure the cream of mushroom soup and cheese you use align with vegetarian guidelines if that’s important to you.
Can I substitute the Velveeta cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with other cheeses like cream cheese or a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for a different but equally creamy texture. Velveeta, however, melts smoothly and gives that signature richness.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe is mild and comforting, perfect for all ages. You can add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños to introduce a gentle kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure the rice and cheese brands you buy are certified gluten-free. This way, you’ll still get all the creamy, cheesy goodness without gluten concerns.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those all-time favorite dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together simple ingredients in a super satisfying way. Whether for weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it never fails to delight and please. Enjoy every cheesy, broccoli-packed bite!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: 40-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish combining tender broccoli, savory cream of mushroom soup, Velveeta, cheddar cheese, and fluffy rice. Perfect as a hearty side or a main, it bakes until golden and bubbly, delivering a warm, cheesy vegetable casserole that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 12.6 ounces frozen broccoli (about 4 cups)
- 8 ounces water chestnuts (1 can, drained and chopped)
Grains
- 1½ cups minute rice
Dairy & Cheese
- 10.5 ounces milk (use the soup can to measure)
- ¾ pound Velveeta cheese (about 3 inches of the block)
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Other
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade, 1 can)
- 8 ounces water (for cooking rice, 1 cup)
Instructions
- Cook the Broccoli: Follow the package instructions to cook the frozen broccoli until tender. Once cooked, drain thoroughly to remove excess water, ensuring the casserole doesn’t become soggy.
- Prepare the Rice: Cook the minute rice according to the package directions using 1 cup of water. This will create the fluffy rice base needed for the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cooked rice, chopped water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Velveeta cheese cut into small cubes. Stir everything together until the Velveeta starts to soften and the mixture is well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the mixture is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top has melted and started to brown slightly.
Notes
- Drain cooked broccoli thoroughly to avoid watery casserole.
- Velveeta cheese melts smoothly, creating a creamy texture, but feel free to substitute with processed cheese if preferred.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder to the mix before baking.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a vegetarian main dish.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
