Description
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty baked dish combining tender broccoli florets, fluffy cooked rice, savory sautéed onions and garlic, and a creamy cheese sauce made with condensed soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course and can be customized with toppings like crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for added crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
- Cook Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender, approximately 2–3 minutes for fresh broccoli or follow package instructions if using frozen. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water in the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, condensed soup, sour cream, milk, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. If desired, evenly distribute the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a comforting side or a fulfilling main dish.
Notes
- Use brown rice to increase fiber content or substitute quinoa for a protein boost.
- For a vegetarian version, opt for cream of mushroom soup and use vegetable broth-based substitutes if needed.
- This casserole freezes well and makes a convenient dish for potlucks or meal prepping.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American