Creamy Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something so satisfying about the creamy, cheesy goodness of a Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Each bite combines the tender texture of cooked broccoli, perfectly fluffy rice, and melted cheese into a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a family gathering or a cozy main for a weeknight dinner, this casserole is the perfect solution. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time for those busy evenings.

Photo byNick Davies

This dish is rich in flavor and packed with the vibrant green of broccoli, giving it a nutritious touch. What really makes it shine is the balance between the creaminess of the cheese and the slight crunch of the baked topping. It’s no wonder this casserole has been a staple in Southern kitchens for decades!

Cultural Origins and Fun Fact

The broccoli and rice casserole has roots in Southern comfort food, known for turning simple ingredients into flavorful, satisfying meals. Many Southern families have their own variation of this dish, often incorporating pantry staples like cream of mushroom or chicken soup, which adds an extra layer of savory flavor. It’s often a popular choice for holiday tables, potlucks, or Sunday dinners because it can be made in large batches, satisfying even the hungriest of crowds.

In addition, casseroles became a household favorite in the mid-20th century, when they provided an easy, one-dish meal that could feed many mouths. This recipe is a tribute to that tradition but with a modern twist—using fresh broccoli and adding extra cheesy goodness!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the broccoli florets, and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Fold in the broccoli: Gently mix in the cooked broccoli florets, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture.
5. Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness with family and friends!

Variations for Dietary Preferences:

• Vegetarian: The base recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but if you want to avoid canned soups, you can easily make a homemade mushroom or veggie-based cream sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the Ritz crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
• Low-Calorie: Use low-fat cheese, milk, and sour cream to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Elevating the Dish:

• For added richness, try mixing in a little cream cheese or shredded mozzarella for an even creamier texture.
• If you love a bit of spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the rice mixture.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a crisp garden salad to balance out the cheesy richness.

Call to Action:

Did you enjoy this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe? Be sure to try it out and let us know in the comments how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who could use some comfort food in their lives. Follow us for more cozy, easy-to-make recipes that bring joy to the dinner table!

Sources:

Family Recipe