Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining warmth, creaminess, and an irresistible cheesy flavor in every bite. This hearty dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner with the family, a festive side dish for holiday gatherings, or a convenient make-ahead option for meal prep. With its tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and rich, gooey cheese sauce, this casserole is a delicious way to bring everyone to the table. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Rich and Cheesy Comfort Food
- The smooth, velvety cheese sauce coats every bite, making this casserole the ultimate comfort food.
- A blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan adds layers of flavor, making it irresistible for cheese lovers.
- The tender broccoli and fluffy rice create a perfect balance of textures—creamy, cheesy, and slightly crisp on top.
- Perfect for both kids and adults, this dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping it indulgent.
2. Easy One-Dish Meal
- Minimal cleanup! Everything is mixed and baked in one dish, saving time and effort.
- No need to pre-cook broccoli—just toss it in with the rice and let it bake to perfection.
- Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious meal with minimal effort.
- Works with both fresh and frozen broccoli, so you can make it anytime with ingredients on hand.
3. Great for Meal Prep
- Make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days—just reheat and enjoy!
- Freezer-friendly! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Portion into meal-prep containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave without losing its creamy texture.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
- A crowd-pleaser at potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday feasts like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Works as both a side dish or a main course—just add protein like chicken, ham, or ground beef.
- A budget-friendly meal that uses simple pantry staples while still feeling rich and indulgent.
- Great for bringing to a friend or new parents—it’s easy, comforting, and loved by all!
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a must-try recipe that delivers big flavor, creamy texture, and total comfort in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Rice & Broccoli
- Prepare 2 cups of rice according to package instructions.
- Steam 3 cups of broccoli florets until tender but not mushy.
3. Make the Cheesy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in cheddar cheese soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
4. Combine & Bake
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce until well combined.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with additional cheese and crushed crackers if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
1. As a Side Dish
This casserole pairs well with protein-rich main dishes for a balanced meal:
- Grilled or Baked Chicken – The creamy, cheesy flavor complements the savory, smoky taste of roasted or grilled chicken.
- Roast Turkey – A perfect addition to holiday meals alongside turkey and stuffing.
- Baked Ham – The salty-sweetness of ham pairs beautifully with the cheesy richness of the casserole.
- Pan-Seared Steak – Serve with a juicy steak for a restaurant-style dinner at home.
2. As a Main Course
Turn this casserole into a complete meal by adding protein:
- Rotisserie Chicken – Stir in shredded chicken for a fast, hearty dinner.
- Cooked Ground Beef or Turkey – Adds extra protein and turns it into a filling entrée.
- Chopped Sausage or Bacon – Smoky, crispy bacon or sliced smoked sausage brings bold flavor and heartiness.
- Beans or Lentils – For a vegetarian option, mix in black beans, white beans, or lentils.
3. With a Salad
Balance out the richness of the casserole with a fresh, crisp salad:
- Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crisp romaine contrast beautifully with the cheesy casserole.
- Mixed Greens with Vinaigrette – A light balsamic or lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad – A refreshing, crunchy side that adds a fresh bite.
- Apple Walnut Salad – The sweetness of apples and crunch of walnuts add variety to your meal.
4. For a Cozy Comfort Meal
- Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to scoop up every bite.
- Pair with a bowl of soup, like tomato soup or a light chicken broth, for an ultra-cozy meal.
No matter how you serve it, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, comforting dish that works for any occasion!
Tips for the Best Broccoli Rice Casserole
1. Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli
- Fresh broccoli gives a slight crunch and fresh flavor.
- Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver—just thaw and drain well before using to avoid a watery casserole.
- If you like softer broccoli, steam it lightly before mixing it in.
2. Cook the Rice in Broth for Extra Flavor
- Instead of plain water, cook the rice in chicken or vegetable broth to infuse it with a deeper, richer taste.
- You can also add garlic or onion powder to the broth while cooking for even more flavor.
3. Make It Extra Creamy
- Stir in ½ cup of cream cheese for a richer, silkier texture.
- Mix in a little heavy cream or whole milk for extra smoothness.
- Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, but try adding gruyère or Monterey Jack for a flavor boost.
4. Add a Crispy Topping for Texture
- Panko breadcrumbs add a light, crispy crunch.
- Crushed Ritz crackers give a buttery, slightly salty topping.
- French fried onions bring a delicious oniony crisp.
- Parmesan cheese mixed with breadcrumbs creates a golden, cheesy crust.
5. Prep Ahead for Easy Meals
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate.
- When ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Leftovers reheat well—just add a splash of broth or milk before warming to keep it creamy.
With these tips, your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole will turn out rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured every time!
Creative Variations
1. Spicy Kick
If you love a little heat, spice up your casserole with:
- ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a subtle burn.
- Chopped jalapeños mixed into the rice for bold flavor.
- A drizzle of hot sauce over the top before serving.
2. Extra Veggies
Boost the nutritional value and add more texture by including:
- Carrots for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Mushrooms for an earthy, umami-rich addition.
- Bell peppers for a pop of color and a mild crunch.
- Spinach or kale stirred in before baking for extra greens.
3. Healthier Version
Lighten up this casserole without sacrificing flavor:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein and a creamy texture.
- Opt for low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber.
- Reduce the butter and use a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
4. Vegan Option
Easily transform this into a delicious plant-based dish:
- Use dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy and flavorful.
- Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for the sour cream and milk.
- Use vegetable broth instead of condensed cheddar soup.
- Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
With these creative variations, you can customize Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole to fit your taste preferences, dietary needs, and favorite flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze broccoli rice casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish. To freeze, assemble the casserole as directed, but instead of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. For best results, remove the plastic wrap before baking and re-cover with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, such as gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, double-check that your cream of mushroom or cheese soup (if using) is certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions, so you can enjoy this dish without worry.
3. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice for its bold, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the broccoli and rice. However, you can get creative with your cheese selection! Try mixing in Gruyère for a nutty depth, mozzarella for extra gooeyness, or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamy texture. A blend of cheeses can add complexity and richness to the dish.
4. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli works wonderfully in this recipe! Simply chop the broccoli into small florets and steam or blanch them for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole. This ensures the broccoli cooks evenly and retains its vibrant color.
5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! This casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
6. Can I add protein to this casserole?
Absolutely! This dish is versatile and can be turned into a complete meal by adding protein. Try mixing in cooked chicken, diced ham, or turkey for a heartier option. For a vegetarian protein boost, add chickpeas or white beans.
7. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or a homemade cheese sauce. To make a simple cheese sauce, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, and slowly add 1 ½ cups of milk. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until smooth and creamy.
8. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
To keep your casserole moist and creamy, make sure not to overbake it. Cover the dish with foil for the first 20–25 minutes of baking to lock in moisture, then remove the foil to allow the top to brown. Additionally, ensure your rice is fully cooked and not undercooked before assembling the casserole.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors. Whether you serve it as a holiday side dish or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying dish that the whole family will love!
Check out this Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup for another cozy comfort food recipe!
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Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 23 minutes
Description
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness. This easy dish is perfect as a side for holiday dinners, a weeknight family meal, or even a make-ahead dish for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Rice & Broccoli
- Prepare 2 cups of rice according to package instructions.
- Steam 3 cups of broccoli florets until tender but not mushy.
3. Make the Cheesy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in cheddar cheese soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
4. Combine & Bake
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce until well combined.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with additional cheese and crushed crackers if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 13