Name: Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white rice; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can (10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers; 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Gather around the table for Broccoli Rice Casserole, a Cheesy Veggie Bake that wraps creamy rice, tender broccoli, and melty cheddar in a warm, golden hug. Perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or potlucks, this easy casserole is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under an hour. With simple ingredients and a buttery cracker topping, Broccoli Rice Casserole brings comfort to every bite. Let’s whip up this cozy classic!

Ingredients for Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need for Broccoli Rice Casserole (serves 6–8):

For the Casserole:

3 cups (450g) cooked white rice (long-grain)
4 cups (400g) fresh broccoli florets, chopped
3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter
1 small onion (100g), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.5 oz/298g) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
½ cup (120g) sour cream
2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ tsp (3g) salt
¼ tsp (0.5g) black pepper
½ tsp (1g) paprika
1 cup (60g) crushed Ritz crackers
2 tbsp (28g) melted butter (for topping)

Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Large skillet
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Tips

Rice: Cooked long-grain white rice absorbs flavors for Cheesy Veggie Bake.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds vibrancy to Broccoli Rice Casserole; frozen works if thawed and drained.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar enhances the cheesy depth; divide for mix and topping.
Soup: Cream of mushroom soup creates a quick, creamy base.
Crackers: Ritz crackers provide a buttery crunch for the topping.

Directions for Broccoli Rice Casserole

Let’s make this Broccoli Rice Casserole—a delicious Cheesy Veggie Bake!

Preheat and Prep

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy serving of Cheesy Veggie Bake.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt 3 tbsp butter and cook 1 diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes. I add 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant for Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, I combine 3 cups cooked rice, 4 cups chopped broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup sour cream, 1.5 cups shredded cheddar, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and ½ tsp paprika, stirring until well-blended.

Assemble with Topping

I spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. I sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar over the top. In a small bowl, I mix 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter and scatter over the casserole for Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Bake and Rest

I bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden. I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings: 6–8 (about 1 cup/200g per serving)
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 35g carbs, 10g protein, 20g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for Broccoli Rice Casserole

Try these twists on Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Protein-Packed: Add 1 cup shredded chicken or diced ham for a main-dish Cheesy Veggie Bake.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crackers.
Vegan: Swap sour cream and cheese for vegan alternatives and use plant-based soup.
Mushroom Boost: Add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
Spicy: Include ¼ tsp cayenne for heat, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Clam Chowder.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh side.
Serve with Layla Cooks’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a cozy meal.
Offer with Layla Cooks’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken for a hearty dinner.

Storage

I store Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping the cracker topping separate for crunch. For freezing, I assemble without the topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. I add the topping before baking, adding 10 minutes if baking from frozen. I reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–25 minutes or microwave single portions for 1–2 minutes.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Serve Broccoli Rice Casserole in individual ramekins for a charming Cheesy Veggie Bake.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or toasted almonds for flair.
Pairing: Enjoy with a green salad, garlic bread, or Layla Cooks’ Coconut Cooler for a complete meal.
Portion Size: 1 cup for a side; 1.5–2 cups for a main.
Occasions: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weeknights.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw your broccoli and drain it well so the casserole doesn’t get watery. Frozen broccoli makes this dish even speedier for busy nights.

How do I make Broccoli Rice Casserole a main dish?
Add cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham right into the mix before baking for a protein boost. It transforms perfectly into a hearty one-pan meal everyone will fill up on.

Can I use a different type Side Dish
Of course! Broccoli Rice Casserole is delicious with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar. Mix and match to suit your family’s favorite flavors.

What’s the best rice to use?
Regular long-grain white rice is classic here, but you can substitute brown rice or even wild rice blends. Just ensure your rice is fully cooked and drained before stirring in.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and swap the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free cracker or panko breadcrumb. It’ll be just as comforting and delicious.

More Side Dish Recipes

Conclusion

Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, cheesy classic that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, this Cheesy Veggie Bake is easy and irresistible. Make Broccoli Rice Casserole, share with loved ones, and enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness!