Broccoli Rice Casserole

Broccoli Rice Casserole is an easy and tasty dish everyone will love! It combines tender broccoli, creamy soup, and cheesy goodness into a warm and filling meal. Perfect for family dinners or a simple side dish, this casserole is a go-to recipe for busy nights.

Why Make This Recipe

This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to get some green veggies into your meal. It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s comforting and satisfying. Who doesn’t enjoy a cheesy, hearty meal? This recipe is perfect for all ages, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.

How to Make Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

12 ounces frozen broccoli
10 ounces cream of chicken soup
4 ounces Velveeta cheese (chopped into small pieces)
3 cups cooked white rice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×9 baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Cook the frozen broccoli according to the package directions. Drain off any extra liquid and place the hot broccoli on a cutting board. Use a knife to chop it into smaller bite-sized pieces.
In a mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and Velveeta cheese. Stir well to combine everything.
Add the cooked rice and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cracked pepper) to the bowl. Stir again until everything is mixed together nicely.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve hot! Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Rice Casserole.

How to Serve Broccoli Rice Casserole

This casserole is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven. You can serve it as a main dish or as a side with grilled chicken or meatloaf. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Broccoli Rice Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool and then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Broccoli Rice Casserole

Make sure to drain the broccoli well to keep the casserole from being watery.
You can use fresh broccoli; just steam it for a few minutes until tender.
For an extra crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.

Variation (If Any)

Feel free to swap out the Velveeta cheese for any other cheese you prefer. You can also add cooked chicken or ham to make it a complete meal. If you want it healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white rice.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh broccoli works just fine. Just steam it until tender, then chop it before adding to the mixture.

How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave. Just make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy!