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Weeknight • Vegetarian

Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Casserole

A creamy, comforting casserole packed with tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and plenty of gooey cheese, perfect as a side or light meal.

Prep
15 min
Cook
30 min
Servings
6
Level
Weeknight
Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Casserole

Get ready for a hug in a dish! This Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, making a perfect side dish for any meal or a light, satisfying vegetarian main. It's wonderfully creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli, guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Yield: 6 servings

Main

  • 4 cups cooked white rice (about 1.5 cups uncooked)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (any kind)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  2. Step 2

    Steam or boil broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.

  3. Step 3

    In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.

  4. Step 4

    Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Continue whisking and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

  5. Step 5

    Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked rice and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is well combined.

  6. Step 6

    Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs (if using).

  7. Step 7

    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. If using panko, bake until crispy.

  8. Step 8

    Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

  • Using day-old rice works great here, as it's less sticky.
  • For an even richer flavor, use half milk and half chicken or vegetable broth in the cheese sauce.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of savory depth.

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