Discover the ultimate cheesy broccoli and rice bake that combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and melted cheese into a comforting casserole perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Explore this delicious Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. As someone who loves adapting traditional recipes for busy families, I’ve perfected this dish that delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.
What You’ll Find Here
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake
Perfect One-Pan Meal
First, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake combines vegetables, grains, and protein in one dish. Moreover, it simplifies meal preparation and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Kid-Friendly Nutrition
Additionally, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake cleverly incorporates vegetables into a cheesy dish kids love. Therefore, it’s an excellent way to ensure your family gets their daily nutrients.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Furthermore, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake uses affordable pantry staples. Consequently, you can create a satisfying meal without straining your grocery budget.
Versatile Customization
Similarly, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake adapts easily to different tastes and dietary needs. Thus, you can personalize it with your favorite cheeses or additional ingredients.
Ingredients
Essential Casserole Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | 1½ cups, uncooked |
| Fresh broccoli | 1 large head (about 4 cups) |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 2½ cups |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Optional Add-ins
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups, shredded |
| Bacon | 6 strips, cooked and crumbled |
| Mushrooms | 1 cup, sliced |
| Red bell pepper | 1, diced |
How to Make
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook rice according to package directions, then set aside.
- Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets and steam until tender-crisp.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
- Gradually add broth and milk, whisking constantly until sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of cheese until melted.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheese sauce, and any optional add-ins.
- Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cooking Timeline
| Step | Action | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven and cook rice | 20 minutes |
| 2 | Prepare broccoli | 8 minutes |
| 3 | Make cheese sauce | 10 minutes |
| 4 | Combine and bake | 30 minutes |
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 325
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use brown rice instead of white rice in this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake. Additionally, different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack work beautifully. Furthermore, frozen broccoli can replace fresh when needed.
How to Make It Protein-Packed
Add cooked chicken, ground beef, or turkey to this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake. Moreover, incorporate beans or lentils for a vegetarian protein boost. Therefore, you can create a complete meal in one dish.
Serving Ideas
Pair this bake with a simple green salad for a complete meal. Additionally, it complements holiday favorites like pimento cheese potato bake. Furthermore, it works alongside sweet potato casserole recipes for special occasions.
Storage and Reheating
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Additionally, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Therefore, you can enjoy this dish beyond the initial meal.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Moreover, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Consequently, your Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake will taste freshly made.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overcook the broccoli initially, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Additionally, avoid using too much liquid which can make the casserole soggy. Therefore, following these tips ensures perfect Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake every time.
FAQs
How do you make cheesy broccoli and rice bake?
To make cheesy broccoli and rice bake, first cook rice and steam broccoli until tender-crisp. Additionally, prepare a cheese sauce by making a roux with butter and flour, then adding milk and cheese until smooth. Therefore, combining the rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce before baking creates the perfect Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake.
What cheese is best for broccoli rice casserole?
Sharp cheddar cheese works best for broccoli rice casserole due to its robust flavor that melts beautifully. Additionally, Colby Jack or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates excellent results. Therefore, using quality cheese in this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake makes a significant difference in flavor.
Can you use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen in this recipe. Additionally, fresh broccoli should be steamed until tender-crisp before adding to the casserole. Therefore, fresh broccoli often provides better texture and flavor in this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be made ahead of time by assembling the entire dish and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. Additionally, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Therefore, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake is perfect for advance meal preparation.
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Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, it’s sure to become a requested favorite at your family table. For more vegetable-based sides, try the broccoli and cheese casserole or explore cheesy green bean casserole for variety. Enjoy creating delicious memories with this classic Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake!
Print
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake | Creamy Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Description
Creamy cheesy broccoli and rice bake with tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and melted cheese in a rich sauce. The ultimate comfort food casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
1½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 large head fresh broccoli (about 4 cups)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook rice according to package directions, then set aside.
3. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets and steam until tender-crisp.
4. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
7. Gradually add broth and milk, whisking constantly until sauce thickens.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of cheese until melted.
9. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheese sauce, and any optional add-ins.
10. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
For extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon of mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
You can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available, just thaw and drain well.
To make ahead, prepare the casserole without baking and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
