Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: Best Comfort Food Ever!

Are you tired of bland, uninspiring side dishes that leave your family pushing food around their plates? I understand that frustration all too well! This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the answer you’ve been searching for creamy, cheesy goodness that transforms ordinary broccoli and rice into a dish everyone will request again and again.

Hi, I’m Emma the heart behind GusRecipes, and I’ve perfected this cheesy broccoli rice casserole through countless family dinners where it’s consistently the first empty dish on the table. The beautiful combination of tender rice, perfectly cooked broccoli, and that irresistible cheese sauce creates comfort food magic that simply can’t be beaten.

In this recipe guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know from ingredient selection to cooking techniques that ensure the perfect texture every time. You’ll discover tips for making this casserole ahead of time, variations to suit different dietary needs, and serving suggestions to complete your meal.

Why This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Works

This isn’t just any casserole recipe it’s a tried-and-true comfort food masterpiece that delivers every time:

• Uses budget-friendly, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have
• Comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time before baking
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing holiday side dish
• Sneaks vegetables into a dish even picky eaters love
• Reheats beautifully for convenient leftovers

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Best Rice Options for Casserole Success

Long-grain white rice typically works best in this broccoli casserole because it maintains its structure without becoming mushy. Brown rice can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrition, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time. Instant rice works in a pinch, but the texture won’t be quite as perfect.

Broccoli Selection and Prep

Fresh broccoli florets deliver the best texture and flavor, but frozen broccoli works wonderfully too just thaw and drain well before adding. Cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets for even cooking and the perfect ratio of broccoli to cheese in each bite.

Cheese Varieties That Make This Casserole Shine

Sharp cheddar provides the classic flavor base, while adding some Monterey Jack or Colby creates incredible meltability. For an elevated version, mix in a touch of Gruyère or Parmesan for complex, nutty undertones.

Ingredients & Prep for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Casserole Base Essentials

• 2 cups cooked long-grain rice
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Creamy Cheese Sauce Components

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup Monterey Jack or Colby cheese, freshly grated
• 1½ cups milk (whole milk provides best richness)
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Crunchy Topping Options

• 1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Pre-Cooking Prep for Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook rice according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes (it will continue cooking in the casserole).
3. Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Drain well.

Creating the Cheesy Rice Casserole Base

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Add mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper, then simmer until slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of the cheddar and all of the Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.

Assembling Your Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice and blanched broccoli.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the rice and broccoli, gently folding until everything is well-coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish.
4. Top with remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
5. Mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with Parmesan and melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Baking Your Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

1. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top.
2. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the casserole set.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Avoiding Common Casserole Pitfalls

• Don’t overcook your rice initially it should be slightly underdone as it will continue cooking in the oven
• Thoroughly drain blanched broccoli to prevent a watery casserole
• Grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties (which contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting)
• Let your casserole rest after baking to allow it to set up properly

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Prepare the entire casserole up to 2 days ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake
• For freezer-friendly prep, assemble but don’t bake cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
• Leftovers stay delicious for 3-4 days in the refrigerator
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole (covered) in a 325°F oven until heated through

Equipment Recommendations

• Use a high-quality, heavy-bottomed saucepan for the cheese sauce to prevent scorching
• A 9×13 glass or ceramic baking dish provides even heating and beautiful presentation
• Invest in a good box grater or food processor attachment for efficiently shredding cheese

Looking for more delicious comfort food recipes? Check out my Pinterest board filled with family favorites: GusRecipes on Pinterest – you’ll find plenty more casseroles and comfort foods to warm your table!

Flavor Variations for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Protein-Packed Broccoli Rice Casserole Options

• Add 2 cups of diced rotisserie chicken for a complete one-dish meal
• Mix in 1 cup of cooked, crumbled tempeh or tofu for a vegetarian protein boost
• Incorporate 1 cup of cooked quinoa in place of some of the rice for extra protein and texture

Dietary Modification Options for Broccoli Casserole

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour for the roux and gluten-free crackers for topping
• Dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk, butter, and cheese alternatives (cashew-based options melt best)
• Lower-carb: Replace half the rice with cauliflower rice and use almond flour in the topping

International Twists on Classic Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with so many main dishes:

• Serve alongside a simple roast chicken for a complete comfort meal
• Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness
• Complement with crusty artisan bread for a satisfying vegetarian dinner
• Offer as part of a holiday spread alongside other classic sides

For beverages, try:

• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
• Sparkling water with lemon
• Unsweetened iced tea with fresh mint

FAQs About Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Can I use frozen broccoli in this rice casserole?
Yes! Thaw it first and drain well to remove excess moisture. No need to blanch frozen broccoli as it’s already partially cooked.

How do I fix a watery broccoli casserole?
If your casserole seems watery, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water, stir into the casserole, and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Always thoroughly drain broccoli to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole healthier?
Absolutely! Use brown rice instead of white, low-fat cheese, and increase the broccoli-to-rice ratio. You can also substitute half the cheese sauce with Greek yogurt for added protein and reduced calories.

My kids don’t like visible broccoli. Any suggestions?
Try chopping the broccoli very finely or even pulsing it in a food processor before mixing it with the rice. The small pieces will be less detectable but still provide nutrition.

How do I reheat leftover broccoli rice casserole?
For best results, reheat covered in a 325°F oven until warmed through (about 20 minutes). Add a tablespoon of milk if it seems dry. Microwave reheating works too, but may result in less even heating.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole isn’t just food it’s a hug in casserole form. The combination of tender rice, perfectly cooked broccoli, and that luxurious cheese sauce creates something truly special that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner or as part of a holiday spread, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Don’t forget to try some of the variations to keep this dish exciting in your regular meal rotation. For more comforting recipes that never disappoint, be sure to check out my other family favorites.

Happy cooking from my kitchen to yours!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: Best Comfort Food Ever!

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• Author: Emma Emma
• Total Time: 35–40 mins
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy, cheesy broccoli and rice casserole comfort food perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday sides.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups cooked rice

2 cups broccoli florets, steamed

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

1/2 cup milk

2 tbsp butter, melted

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine rice, broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, soup, milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour mixture into greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top if desired.

5. Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Serve hot.

Notes

Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or mixed vegetables.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Add cooked chicken for a heartier casserole.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 25–30 mins
• Category: Side Dish / Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheesy rice casserole, comfort food