rice broccoli and cheese casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best rice broccoli and cheese casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – the rice broccoli and cheese casserole. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a satisfying side dish for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to please.

The combination of tender broccoli, flavorful rice, and melted cheese is a match made in heaven. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for a novice cook like myself.

In fact, I’ve made this recipe so many times that I’ve lost count – it’s that good! So grab a pen and paper, and let’s get started on making this delicious rice broccoli and cheese casserole together. The history of this dish is quite interesting, as it originated from traditional Italian cuisine.

The original recipe called for Arborio rice, which gives it a creamy texture when cooked. However, I’ve adapted it to use regular white rice to make it more accessible to everyone. When cooked, the rice absorbs all the flavors of the dish, making it truly irresistible.

As for the taste and texture, this casserole has it all – crunchy broccoli, tender rice, and a cheesy sauce that just melts in your mouth. The home cooking technique involved is quite simple – just layer everything in a baking dish and bake until golden brown. And don’t even get me started on how versatile this recipe is – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish, depending on your preference.

Rice, Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

4.6 from 615 votes

A comforting and cheesy casserole featuring tender rice, crisp broccoli and a rich cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Broccoli

4 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
3 cups milk
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a large pot, combine rice, water, and salt.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
5Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
6While the rice is cooking, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
7Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
8Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender and lightly browned.
Set aside.
9In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
10Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
11Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
12Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
13Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
14Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
15In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, roasted broccoli, and cheese sauce.
16Stir until well combined.
17Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
18In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
19Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
20Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
21Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 1100mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the broccoli or cheese sauce. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

This casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something comforting after a long day. My kids love helping me prepare this recipe because they get to mix everything together before baking – they think it’s like creating their own special magic potion!

One great thing about this recipe is that it reheats beautifully – simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. If you have leftovers (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love leftovers?)

, consider storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezing them for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rice, Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Q: What type of cheese should I use for this recipe?

I like to use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for this recipe. The cheddar adds a sharp flavor while the mozzarella provides creaminess. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese if you prefer.

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli if available. Just make sure to chop it into florets before adding it to the recipe.

Q: How do I store leftover casserole?

You can store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

No problem! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have Arborio rice? Can I use regular white rice instead?

You can use regular white rice if you prefer. However, keep in mind that Arborio rice gives the dish its signature creamy texture.

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