There’s something undeniably comforting about a cheesy broccoli casserole fresh out of the oven. Whether it’s the creamy texture, the vibrant green broccoli smothered in gooey cheese, or the golden breadcrumb topping, this dish never fails to satisfy. Growing up, this recipe graced our family table countless times—from holidays to weeknight dinners.
In this post, we’ll explore how to make an easy cheesy broccoli casserole and why it’s a staple in so many households. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also packs a nutritional punch with broccoli at its core. Whether you’re searching for the perfect recipe for cheesy broccoli rice casserole or looking to master the cheese for broccoli recipe, this guide has got you covered.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Broccoli provides vitamins and fiber, while cheese adds protein and flavor.
- Versatile: Customize the ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal taste.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike!
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best, but frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative.
- Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can experiment with mozzarella, Gruyère, or even Parmesan.
- Rice: White rice is traditional, but brown rice or quinoa can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrition.
- Soup Base: Cream of mushroom soup is a classic, but cream of chicken or celery works well too.
How to Make Cheese for Broccoli Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- Prepare the Broccoli
Blanching the broccoli ensures it remains tender-crisp in the casserole. Frozen broccoli can be thawed and used directly. - Make the Cheese Sauce
Combine soup, milk, and cheese to create a creamy, flavorful base. Stir in spices to enhance the flavor. - Assemble the Casserole
Mix the cheese sauce with the broccoli and rice. Ensure every piece is well-coated for a uniform taste. - Bake to Perfection
Topping with buttered breadcrumbs adds a satisfying crunch, but it’s optional. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Blanch it for no more than 2 minutes to maintain its bright color and texture.
- Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for a gooey finish.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Variations and Customizations
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or toss some diced jalapeños for a bold, zesty flavor.
- Protein Boost: Include cooked chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier dish.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese, almond milk, and a vegan cream soup alternative.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy broccoli casserole with:
- Grilled Chicken: A simple protein to complement the rich casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up every creamy bite.
- Fresh Salad: Add a crisp, refreshing contrast with a green or Caesar salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare it up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
Q: What’s the best substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
A: Cream of chicken or a homemade béchamel sauce works great.
Q: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping entirely. Ensure your soup base is also gluten-free.
Related Recipes
- Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole: Another veggie-packed comfort dish.
- Classic Green Bean Casserole: A holiday favorite.
- Loaded Baked Potato Casserole: Perfect for cheese lovers.
Conclusion
Cheesy broccoli casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for a weeknight side dish, this recipe is sure to please. With its versatility and ease, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again.
So why wait? Try this easy cheesy broccoli casserole today and discover why it’s a family favorite. Please share your experience in the comments or let us know how you customized it! Happy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Blanch the broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the broccoli florets, and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked rice and blanched broccoli to the cheese mixture. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- If using breadcrumbs, toss them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.