Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole has been my go-to comfort food for years, and I’m so excited to share my favorite version with you! This dish is pure magic – a warm, gooey hug in a bowl that smells as amazing as it tastes. I remember making an incredibly easy cheesy broccoli rice casserole for the first time when I was trying to use up leftover chicken and broccoli, and it turned into an instant family favorite. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds. So, if you’ve ever wondered what is cheesy broccoli rice casserole, it’s this delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all baked together with fluffy rice. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! You’ll adore the incredible flavor and comforting texture that makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

• It’s incredibly delicious, with a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy flavors and tender chicken and broccoli.
• You can whip up this cheesy broccoli rice casserole in just 15 minutes of prep time.
• It’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies, making it a healthier option for dinner.
• This broccoli cheese rice bake is super budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
• The creamy texture makes it a truly satisfying and comforting meal.
• This broccoli cheese rice bake is versatile and works perfectly as a main course or a hearty side dish.
• It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delightful and creamy broccoli rice casserole. I find that having everything prepped makes the assembly process a breeze, ensuring a perfect bake every time.

• 2 cups cooked white rice – leftover rice works perfectly!
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets – or 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed and well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – for that classic cheesy flavor.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – adds a wonderful gooeyness and stretch.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this is the base of our creamy sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – adds moisture and helps create a smooth texture.
• 1/2 cup milk – whole milk is best for richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for a savory punch.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste – season as you go!
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color) – gives it a lovely golden hue.
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping) – adds a nice crunchy texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, to crisp up breadcrumbs) – toss with breadcrumbs for an extra golden topping.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ready to create the ultimate comfort food? Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious cheesy broccoli rice casserole. I promise, it’s easier than you think!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Step 2: If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender-crisp. If you opt for frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess water. This step is crucial for a great cheesy rice and broccoli bake.
3. Step 3: Grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the cooked white rice, cooked chicken, and your prepared broccoli. Add the entire can of cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together until it’s well combined – you want a nice, even mixture.
4. Step 4: Now for the seasonings! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you like a little color, add the paprika now too. Mix it all up gently until all the flavors are distributed throughout the casserole base.
5. Step 5: Time for the cheese! Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. Reserve about half a cup of the cheese blend to sprinkle on top later. This is what makes how to make broccoli cheese rice casserole so satisfyingly gooey!
6. Step 6: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that every bite will be just as delicious as the last.
7. Step 7: Top the casserole with the reserved cheese. For an extra crunch, mix the bread crumbs with the olive oil and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese. This step elevates your cheesy broccoli rice casserole from good to unforgettable.
8. Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that moment when the cheese is perfectly melted, bubbly, and the top is a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s ready!
9. Step 9: Once it’s out of the oven, let your amazing cheesy broccoli rice casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this dish absolutely perfect. Following these simple tips will elevate your cheesy broccoli rice casserole from good to absolutely unforgettable, ensuring a truly delightful meal every time.

• For the creamiest texture, use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli before baking; it will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for tender-crisp.
• If you want a crispier topping, mix your breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before baking. Sometimes the cream of mushroom soup can be a bit salty, so season carefully.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

The real secret to the best cheesy broccoli rice casserole is the combination of different cheeses for flavor and meltiness, and ensuring your dairy components (milk and soup) are well-blended to create a truly creamy sauce base. For more on creating delicious sauces, check out this guide on homemade tomato sauce.

Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

A common pitfall is a watery casserole; ensure you drain thawed frozen broccoli well. Another mistake is over-baking, which can dry out the chicken and rice. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time. For tips on proper food handling and storage, you can refer to general guidelines on food safety practices.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This delightful casserole is so versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s a hearty main dish that stands beautifully on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides to create a complete meal. For a truly comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette; the freshness cuts through the richness of the casserole wonderfully.

Another fantastic option is to serve it as a hearty side dish. This cheesy rice and broccoli bake is a fantastic companion to roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. A side of crusty garlic bread is also a must if you want to sop up every last bit of that delicious cheesy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that always brings smiles to the table. You might also enjoy our recipe for spaghetti with garlic and oil as another simple side.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This comforting dish is packed with flavor and provides a good source of protein. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 350-400 calories
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your preparation of this cheesy broccoli rice casserole. For more information on nutritional data, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Leftovers are the best part, right? This delicious cheesy broccoli rice casserole stores beautifully, meaning you can enjoy it again for another satisfying meal. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool completely on the counter for about 15-20 minutes. This is important to prevent condensation and sogginess in your storage containers.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy cheesy broccoli rice casserole for dinner. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. For refrigerated leftovers, you can gently reheat in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Enjoy your second (or third!) serving!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli in this cheesy broccoli rice casserole?

Yes, absolutely! Using frozen broccoli is totally fine for this simple cheesy broccoli rice casserole. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain it very well before adding it to the mix. Excess water can make your casserole a bit too soupy, which we definitely want to avoid!

Can I add other vegetables to this broccoli cheese rice bake?

You sure can! This recipe is quite forgiving. I’ve successfully added cooked carrots, peas, or even diced bell peppers. Just ensure they are cooked to a tender-crisp stage before mixing them in, so they don’t get mushy during baking. For inspiration on vegetable preparation, see our tips on vegetable gardening.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup for my cheesy broccoli rice casserole?

No worries if cream of mushroom isn’t your favorite or if you don’t have it on hand! You can easily substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even cream of celery soup. For a dairy-free option, a dairy-free cream soup alternative or a homemade béchamel sauce would work wonderfully.

How can I make my cheesy broccoli rice casserole extra cheesy?

For an extra cheesy experience, I recommend using a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a touch of Gruyere. Also, don’t be shy with the cheese you reserve for the topping! You can even add a bit more cheese into the mixture itself. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking adds another layer of deliciousness to this simple cheesy broccoli rice casserole.

Variations of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole You Can Try

While my classic recipe is fantastic, the beauty of this dish is its adaptability. You can easily tweak it to fit your dietary needs or simply to try something new. Experimenting with this broccoli cheese rice bake is half the fun!

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like peas, corn, or diced carrots for more texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of diced jalapeños into the casserole mixture. A dash of your favorite hot sauce can also add a nice zing.
• Gluten-Free Delight: To make this a gluten-free meal, simply swap the cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free cream soup alternative and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Ensure your rice and broth are also certified gluten-free.
• Lightened Up: For a healthier twist on this broccoli cheese rice bake, try using low-fat milk and a reduced-fat cream soup. You can also swap white rice for brown rice for added fiber.

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: 15 Min Prep

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheeses in a warm, inviting dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, to crisp up breadcrumbs)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets until bright green and tender (about 3-4 minutes). If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk.
4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, reserving some for the topping.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top. If using, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Serve in vibrant colored bowls to highlight the dish’s cheesy goodness.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.
• Consider serving with a side salad or crusty bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350-400 calories
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Protein: 25 grams
• Cholesterol: N/A