Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Broccoli Rice Casserole is a beloved dish that brings back memories of cozy evenings and family gatherings. This comforting casserole is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the vibrant green goodness of broccoli.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients already in your pantry.

Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to assemble and bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables, meats, or cheeses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Broccoli:

1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain rice

2 cups chicken broth

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

Cooked chicken or ham

Mushrooms

Roasted red peppers

Different types of cheese (Swiss, Monterey Jack)

Instructions

1. Prep the Broccoli: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and any optional additions. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir to combine.
6. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat.

Make it Heartier: Stir in cooked ground beef, chopped ham, or diced bacon for extra protein.

Add Veggies: Include other vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.

Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gruyere.

Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Simply thaw and drain before using.

Can I use a different type of rice? While long-grain rice is traditional, you can also use brown rice or wild rice.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker? Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.

Conclusion

Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this classic casserole is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get cooking!

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

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