Here’s a comforting, family-favorite recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole – creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli and fluffy rice. It’s a perfect side dish or a cozy main with added protein.
🧀 Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
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2 cups cooked white or brown rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
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3 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets (or 1 bag frozen, thawed and drained)
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1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
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½ onion, finely chopped
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1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
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½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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¼ cup milk (as needed to loosen mixture)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional topping: crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or more cheese
Instructions:
🔹 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole pan.
🔹 2. Cook the broccoli:
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Steam or boil broccoli for 2–3 minutes until just tender (if using fresh).
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Drain well. If using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and squeezed dry.
🔹 3. Sauté aromatics (optional but recommended):
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In a skillet, heat butter over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion (and garlic, if using), and cook until softened, about 3–5 minutes.
🔹 4. Mix the casserole:
In a large bowl, combine:
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Cooked rice
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Cooked broccoli
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Sautéed onion/garlic
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Cream soup
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Sour cream
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1 cup of the cheddar cheese
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Salt, pepper, and a splash of milk if needed for creaminess
🔹 5. Assemble and bake:
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Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese over the top.
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Optional: top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Add cooked chicken or turkey to make it a full meal.
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Use cream of celery or a homemade white sauce for a from-scratch version.
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Try mixing cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for extra flavor.
Would you like a version without canned soup or a freezer-friendly adaptation?