Name: Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen); 3 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1 cup Velveeta cheese (diced); 10.75 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can); 2 cups cooked white rice

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When I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is my beloved Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my mom would whip up this creamy casserole, filling our home with the mouthwatering aroma of melted cheese and rich butter. It was the perfect dish for chilly winter evenings, bringing warmth and joy to our family dinners. I remember gathering around the table with my siblings, eagerly waiting for the moment we could dig into this delightful casserole. Each bite from that creamy, cheesy goodness was like a hug from home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Stands Out

There are countless reasons to adore this Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole, and I’m excited to share them with you!

Comforting and Satisfying

First and foremost, this dish is comfort food at its finest. The creamy texture, combined with the cheesy flavor, makes it incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or hosting a gathering, this casserole hits all the right spots. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a cold winter night.

Versatile and Customizable

The beauty of the Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Want to add some protein? Toss in some shredded chicken or cooked sausage. Prefer a different veggie? Substituting cauliflower or carrots works wonderfully. The possibilities are endless!

Quick and Simple to Prepare

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have this delicious casserole ready in no time. It’s a lifesaver for those nights when you don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. Just a few simple steps and you’re on your way to a comforting meal.

Perfect for Leftovers

One of the best things about this casserole is that it makes fantastic leftovers. You can easily refrigerate or freeze any extras, and they taste just as good the next day. It’s a great option for meal prep or when you want to whip up something ahead of time for a busy week.

A Family Favorite

Finally, the Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a dish that everyone loves. My kids can’t get enough of it, and I appreciate how easy it is to please the whole family. It’s heartwarming to see their faces light up when I serve this dish at the dinner table. It truly brings us together!

What You Need for Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

The ingredients for this Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole are not only simple but also packed with flavors that blend beautifully together. The key players here are the broccoli, which provides nutrition and crunch, and the Velveeta cheese, which brings that delicious creaminess we all crave. Together with butter and cream of chicken soup, they create a casserole that’s comforting and hearty.

16 ounces chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen): This is the star of the show! It adds a wonderful crunch and is loaded with vitamins.
3 tablespoons butter: This adds richness and flavor, making the dish creamy.
1/2 cup chopped onion: The onion provides a savory depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
1 cup Velveeta cheese (diced): This processed cheese is known for melting beautifully, ensuring a creamy texture throughout the casserole.
10.75 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can): This is the secret ingredient that binds everything together and adds richness.
2 cups cooked white rice: The rice serves as the base of the casserole, providing heartiness to the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Making the Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a breeze and a great way to spend a little quality time in the kitchen. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress! Let’s dive into the process.

Start by preparing your broccoli. Place it in a steamer and steam for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it turns bright green. This not only cooks the broccoli but also retains its vibrant color and nutrients. You want it tender but still with a little bite to it.
While the broccoli is steaming, take a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the onions are soft and fragrant.
Now, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the diced Velveeta cheese and the cream of chicken soup into the onion mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is combined evenly. You should have a nice creamy mixture that smells heavenly.
Add the steamed broccoli and cooked white rice to the cheese mixture. Gently fold everything together until the broccoli and rice are fully coated in that cheesy goodness. Be careful not to mash the broccoli too much; you want some texture!
At this point, you can serve the casserole immediately if you’re feeling hungry. However, if you’d like to prepare it ahead of time, transfer the mixture into an 8-inch square baking pan. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
If you refrigerated the casserole, when you’re ready to serve it, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the casserole and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s hot and bubbly, and the cheese is slightly golden on top. This ensures that all the flavors have melded together perfectly.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking the Broccoli: Make sure not to overcook the broccoli during steaming. You want it just bright green for the best texture in the casserole.
Cheese Selection: While Velveeta is great for its melting properties, you can also mix in shredded cheddar for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage: The casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven for best results.
Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance, making it great for gatherings.

Recipe Notes about Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The casserole can last up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Customizations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the mix, making it your own!
Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving adds a nice touch.

Accompaniments for Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

When it comes to serving the Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole, there’s a world of options that can make your meal even more delightful!

Fresh Salad: Pair this casserole with a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.
Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread complements the cheesy flavors and makes for a hearty meal.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or winter dinner parties.
Seasonal Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables in the fall or a side of creamy mashed potatoes in the winter.
Meal Prep: This casserole is great for meal prepping. You can portion it out for quick weeknight dinners.

FAQ

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in the Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the dish. This will help maintain the texture and prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Using frozen broccoli can also save you some prep time, making this dish even easier to throw together!

You can enhance the flavor of your Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole by adding spices and herbs. Try incorporating garlic powder, black pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also add a lovely touch. If you like a bit of crunch, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.

Yes, one of the fantastic aspects of the Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is that it can be made ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid a cold center.

The Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with a fresh garden salad for a light and balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also complement the dish beautifully, adding a nice crunch. If you want to keep it simple, just enjoy it on its own—it’s indulgent enough!

Conclusion

The Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is undeniably special with its creamy, cheesy goodness that warms the soul. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or an easy dish to impress guests, this recipe has got you covered. I encourage you to try it out and experience the joy it brings to the dinner table. You won’t regret making this delicious, satisfying casserole!