Are you craving a mouthwatering, cheesy dish that combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli with the comforting warmth of rice? Look no further! This Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal that's both delicious and nutritious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Steam the broccoli florets in a steamer basket or microwave until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain excess water and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli florets, shredded cheese, milk, and chopped onions. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent excessive browning.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to become slightly golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to set.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course, garnishing with additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses to enhance the dish's richness.
- Ensure your broccoli is not overcooked - tender-crisp is the key to maintaining texture and nutrients.
- Use day-old rice for better consistency, as it absorbs flavors more effectively.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or extra cheese before the final 5 minutes of baking.
- If you want to make it more substantial, add cooked chicken or ham to turn it into a complete meal.
- Experiment with adding garlic powder or herbs like thyme for additional depth of flavor.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the ingredients to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 161kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 18mg
