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Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

creamy cheesy broccoli rice casserole - featured image
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A comforting casserole featuring tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or holiday sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Cooked rice (white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice)
  • Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Cook rice according to package instructions or use leftover rice. Set aside.
  3. Prepare broccoli by steaming or blanching. Chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets or thaw and drain frozen broccoli. Ensure broccoli is tender but not mushy.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  6. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, ensuring no lumps. Stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until cheeses are fully melted and sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired.
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
  9. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
  10. Top with an additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  11. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
  12. Remove from oven and let casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

[‘Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.’, ‘Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain vibrant color and texture.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning in the cheese sauce before combining with rice and broccoli.’, ‘Repurpose leftover rice or cooked veggies for this recipe.’, ‘Prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheesy casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, kid-friendly, vegetarian option

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/creamy-cheesy-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe-youll-love/