Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Comforting Family Dish

Name: Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 3 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; 0.5 cup milk; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

December 15, 2025November 26, 2025 by Isabella

Looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly? Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is just what you need! This comforting family favorite combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and hearty brown rice for a meal everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying leftovers, I’ll share tips and tricks to make this dish your new go-to. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This casserole combines wholesome ingredients like brown rice and broccoli, making it a filling dish that warms the soul.
Cheesy Goodness: With layers of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, every bite is rich and satisfying, perfect for cheese lovers!
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, this recipe is great for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Versatile Dish: This casserole can be served as a main dish or a side, and you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked brown rice

– 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup

– ½ cup milk

Seasonings and Toppings

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– ½ teaspoon salt

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

In this dish, the main ingredients create a warm and filling meal. The cooked brown rice gives a nice base. Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey goodness. Cream of mushroom soup binds everything together. Milk makes the mix creamy and smooth.

The seasonings enhance the flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Black pepper and salt bring balance. For the topping, breadcrumbs add a lovely crunch. Olive oil helps them crisp up in the oven. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick on top. Each bite is a burst of flavor and comfort!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temp for baking.

– Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. After that, drain the broccoli and move it to a bowl with ice water. This stops the cooking. Once it cools, drain it well and set aside.

– Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until it is all well combined.

Assembly and Baking

– Incorporate Broccoli & Cheese: Now, add the blanched broccoli and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mix. Stir gently to combine everything. Ensure the broccoli is evenly spread throughout.

– Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks well.

– Add Toppings: In another small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Then, top it with the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese for a tasty finish.

Cooking

– Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the casserole will be bubbly.

– Serve: Once baked, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before you serve it. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole!

Tips & Tricks

Perfect Cooking Techniques

To get the best rice texture, always use cooked brown rice. It should be fluffy, not sticky. If you want to cook it fresh, follow the package instructions closely. When cooking broccoli, avoid mushiness by blanching. Boil the florets for just 2-3 minutes. After that, quickly cool them in ice water. This stops the cooking and keeps the bright green color.

Flavor Enhancements

Cheese makes this dish shine. While cheddar is classic, you can try other types too. Gouda or Monterey Jack add a nice twist. You might also think about adding some spice. A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika can give it a kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the flavor too.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with simple sides for a great meal. A crisp salad or roasted chicken works well. For a fun twist, serve it in individual ramekins. This makes it feel special and easy to handle. You can also top it with extra cheese or herbs for a nice finish.

Pro Tips

Perfectly Cooked Rice: Use leftover brown rice or cook it a day ahead. This enhances the flavor and texture of the casserole.
Fresh Broccoli Flavor: Blanching the broccoli not only preserves its bright color but also enhances its flavor and texture in the casserole.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for added depth of flavor.
Crunchy Topping: For an extra crunch, you can add crushed nuts or seeds to the breadcrumb mixture before baking.

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

You can make this casserole fit your diet easily. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten issues. Check labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

If you want a vegan version, swap out the cheese and milk for plant-based options. Try using almond milk or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. There are also great vegan cheese blends available. They melt well and taste great in this dish.

Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to get creative with veggies. Instead of just broccoli, try adding spinach or bell peppers. You can also mix in some peas for a pop of color and flavor. These swaps make the dish more vibrant and packed with nutrients.

You might want to change the rice too. While brown rice is full of fiber, white rice works just as well. Quinoa can also be a great choice for a protein boost. Each option brings its own unique taste and texture.

Casserole Size Adjustments

Scaling the recipe is simple. If you need to feed a crowd, double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything heats through.

For smaller servings, you can cut the recipe in half. Use an 8×8 inch dish instead. This is perfect for a small family meal or a cozy dinner for two. Adjust the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to cover it well. This helps keep the flavors fresh and tasty.

Freezing Instructions

For freezing, let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for about three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheating it can be easy if you follow a few tips.

Reviving Leftovers

To refresh and reheat, you can add a splash of milk before warming it up. This adds moisture back into the dish. Heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s hot, about 15-20 minutes. If you want to get creative, use leftovers for a new meal. You can mix it into a soup or make a wrap with it.

FAQs

Common Questions About Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water. This saves time and works well in the casserole.

How to make homemade cream of mushroom soup?

To make homemade cream of mushroom soup, sauté chopped mushrooms in butter. Add flour to make a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken or vegetable broth, then add cream. Stir until thickened.

Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat. This makes meal prep easy and quick.

What can I serve with Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with grilled chicken or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside roasted veggies for a balanced meal. Enjoy the flavors together!

This blog post detailed how to make a delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. We covered the key ingredients and easy steps for preparation and baking. You learned about tips for perfect texture and flavor, along with variations for dietary needs. Storing leftovers and reheating them was also discussed to ensure you enjoy this dish later.

I hope you feel ready to try this recipe and make it your own. Enjoy the comfort and joy this casserole brings to your tabl

$- 2 cups cooked brown rice - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup - ½ cup milk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese In this dish, the main ingredients create a warm and filling meal. The cooked brown rice gives a nice base. Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey goodness. Cream of mushroom soup binds everything together. Milk makes the mix creamy and smooth. The seasonings enhance the flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Black pepper and salt bring balance. For the topping, breadcrumbs add a lovely crunch. Olive oil helps them crisp up in the oven. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick on top. Each bite is a burst of flavor and comfort! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temp for baking. - Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. After that, drain the broccoli and move it to a bowl with ice water. This stops the cooking. Once it cools, drain it well and set aside. - Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until it is all well combined. - Incorporate Broccoli & Cheese: Now, add the blanched broccoli and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mix. Stir gently to combine everything. Ensure the broccoli is evenly spread throughout. - Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks well. - Add Toppings: In another small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Then, top it with the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese for a tasty finish. - Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the casserole will be bubbly. - Serve: Once baked, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before you serve it. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole! To get the best rice texture, always use cooked brown rice. It should be fluffy, not sticky. If you want to cook it fresh, follow the package instructions closely. When cooking broccoli, avoid mushiness by blanching. Boil the florets for just 2-3 minutes. After that, quickly cool them in ice water. This stops the cooking and keeps the bright green color. Cheese makes this dish shine. While cheddar is classic, you can try other types too. Gouda or Monterey Jack add a nice twist. You might also think about adding some spice. A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika can give it a kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the flavor too. Pair this casserole with simple sides for a great meal. A crisp salad or roasted chicken works well. For a fun twist, serve it in individual ramekins. This makes it feel special and easy to handle. You can also top it with extra cheese or herbs for a nice finish. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Rice: Use leftover brown rice or cook it a day ahead. This enhances the flavor and texture of the casserole. Fresh Broccoli Flavor: Blanching the broccoli not only preserves its bright color but also enhances its flavor and texture in the casserole. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for added depth of flavor. Crunchy Topping: For an extra crunch, you can add crushed nuts or seeds to the breadcrumb mixture before baking. {{image_2}} You can make this casserole fit your diet easily. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten issues. Check labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free. If you want a vegan version, swap out the cheese and milk for plant-based options. Try using almond milk or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. There are also great vegan cheese blends available. They melt well and taste great in this dish. Feel free to get creative with veggies. Instead of just broccoli, try adding spinach or bell peppers. You can also mix in some peas for a pop of color and flavor. These swaps make the dish more vibrant and packed with nutrients. You might want to change the rice too. While brown rice is full of fiber, white rice works just as well. Quinoa can also be a great choice for a protein boost. Each option brings its own unique taste and texture. Scaling the recipe is simple. If you need to feed a crowd, double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything heats through. For smaller servings, you can cut the recipe in half. Use an 8x8 inch dish instead. This is perfect for a small family meal or a cozy dinner for two. Adjust the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to cover it well. This helps keep the flavors fresh and tasty. For freezing, let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for about three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheating it can be easy if you follow a few tips. To refresh and reheat, you can add a splash of milk before warming it up. This adds moisture back into the dish. Heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it's hot, about 15-20 minutes. If you want to get creative, use leftovers for a new meal. You can mix it into a soup or make a wrap with it. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water. This saves time and works well in the casserole. How to make homemade cream of mushroom soup? To make homemade cream of mushroom soup, sauté chopped mushrooms in butter. Add flour to make a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken or vegetable broth, then add cream. Stir until thickened. Can I prepare the casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to eat. This makes meal prep easy and quick. What can I serve with Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole? This casserole pairs well with grilled chicken or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside roasted veggies for a balanced meal. Enjoy the flavors together! This blog post detailed how to make a delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. We covered the key ingredients and easy steps for preparation and baking. You learned about tips for perfect texture and flavor, along with variations for dietary needs. Storing leftovers and reheating them was also discussed to ensure you enjoy this dish later. I hope you feel ready to try this recipe and make it your own. Enjoy the comfort and joy this casserole brings to your table!$