Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
The ultimate comfort food, this Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy winter dinner, it's sure to satisfy your cravings and become a beloved family favorite!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
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
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
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.