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Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that combines creamy cheese sauce, fluffy rice, and perfectly cooked broccoli into one irresistible bake. It’s rich yet balanced, cheesy but not heavy, and ideal as a side dish for family dinners, holidays, or weeknight meals. With simple ingredients and homemade sauce, it’s fresher and tastier than anything from a can!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

Casserole Base:

  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 6 cups fresh broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces

Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • ¾ cup diced onion about 1 small
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese reserve remaining 1 cup for topping
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and set aside.
  • Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux.
  • Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
  • Add cream cheese, paprika, dry mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until melted and creamy.
  • Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and fully melted. Adjust salt to taste.
  • Combine: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce until well-coated.
  • Assemble: Transfer mixture into a lightly greased baking dish (about 9x13 inches). Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  • Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.
  • Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a cozy main or side dish!

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
  • Substitute brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and texture.
  • Add cooked chicken or turkey to make it a complete meal.
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully — perfect for meal prep!