Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe You’ll Want Every Week

Introduction

When cozy comfort food meets real flavor, you get this incredibly satisfying Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. Packed with tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty layers of cheese, this dish is the ultimate side—or even a full meal on its own. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or prepping a dish for the holidays, this casserole is easy to make, kid-friendly, and so delicious, everyone will be asking for seconds

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This isn’t your standard broccoli rice casserole with canned soup. This version is made entirely from scratch—with real ingredients, real cheese, and real flavor.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 2 ½ cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for crunchy topping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (to toss with panko)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook Your Rice and Broccoli

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions if you haven’t already. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked rice.
For broccoli, steam or boil until tender-crisp, about 4–5 minutes if using fresh, or follow the microwave instructions if using frozen. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
Let it simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened. Stir in heavy cream (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well until fully coated. Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly on top. If you love a crunchy finish, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle over the Parmesan layer.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheddar if desired.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and taste—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can cause graininess.
• Adjust the thickness of your sauce by reducing or increasing the flour/milk ratio. For extra richness, don’t skip the cream.
• Mix in protein like cooked chicken, turkey, or ham to make it a main dish.
• Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken broth with veggie broth.

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Storage & Meal Prep

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Use the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions until warm.

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What to Serve With It

• Baked or grilled chicken
• Roasted carrots or glazed sweet potatoes
• A fresh side salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Buttermilk biscuits or garlic toast

This casserole also stands beautifully on its own!

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FAQs

Can I use brown rice or quinoa?
Yes, cooked brown rice or quinoa both work wonderfully and add a nutty flavor and more fiber.

What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives that classic flavor, but feel free to blend with Fontina, Gruyère, or Colby Jack for variety.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate unbaked up to 24 hours in advance. Bake as directed when ready.

How do I keep the broccoli from going soggy?
Avoid overcooking before adding to the casserole. It will continue to cook while baking.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 6)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

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