Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe - Easy and Delicious
Introduction
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This creamy and cheesy casserole is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
History
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. It is a popular comfort food that is often served during the holidays or special occasions. The combination of creamy mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and tender broccoli creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is loved by many.
Ingredients
- 0.75 cup chopped onion
- 0.75 cup chopped celery
- vegetable cooking spray
- 3 cup cooked rice
- 1 10 oz (283 g) package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
- 1 10.75 oz (305 g) can cream of mushroom soup
- 0.75 cup (6 oz (170 g)) grated cheddar cheese, divided
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
How to prepare
- Cook the onion and celery in a large skillet coated with vegetable cooking spray until they are tender crisp.
- Add the rice, broccoli, soup, 0.5 cup of cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the mixture into a baking dish that is 1-0.5 to 2 qt (1.89 liter) in size and coated with cooking spray.
- Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 35 minutes. Then, top it with the remaining 0.25 cup of cheese.
- Bake for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or ham for a protein boost.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in some diced red bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the casserole.
- You can use brown rice or wild rice instead of white rice for added nutrition and flavor.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a protein boost.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled steak. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad.
Cooking Techniques
Baking is the primary cooking technique for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. Make sure to bake the casserole until it is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use brown rice or wild rice instead of white rice.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version of the casserole.
- Use vegetable broth or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup.
Make Ahead Tips
You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve it in a decorative baking dish for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve it with sparkling water or iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole contains approximately 10 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole contains dairy (cheese and sour cream) and wheat (cream of mushroom soup) allergens.
Summary
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This creamy and cheesy casserole is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Agnes for a cup of tea and a chat. Agnes was always a wonderful cook, and her house always smelled of delicious meals simmering on the stove.
As we sat at her kitchen table sipping our tea, Agnes suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. She emerged a few moments later with a tattered old recipe card in her hand.
"I want to share a new recipe with you, dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's a Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole that I learned from my Aunt Edna. It's a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings."
Agnes proceeded to gather the ingredients and walk me through the steps of making the casserole. I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, grated cheese, and mixed everything together in a large bowl. The smell of the creamy cheese sauce and steamed broccoli filled the kitchen, making my mouth water.
Once the casserole was assembled and in the oven, Agnes poured us each another cup of tea and we sat down to catch up. As we chatted, I couldn't stop thinking about how delicious the casserole smelled. I knew I had to try making it myself.
The next day, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. As I chopped, stirred, and baked, I felt a sense of satisfaction and pride in creating something so delicious from scratch. When the casserole emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.
Over the years, I have made Agnes's Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole countless times. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top. Each time I make it, I think of Agnes and the day she shared her family recipe with me.
I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a staple at our holiday gatherings. The cheesy, gooey goodness of the casserole never fails to impress, and I am always happy to see empty plates and satisfied smiles around the table.
As I sit here now, writing this story, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. From Agnes's kitchen to my own, the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole has become a beloved tradition that I hope to pass down to future generations.
So here it is, my dear reader, the recipe for Agnes's Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. May it bring you as much joy and deliciousness as it has brought me over the years. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups steamed broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
4. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and deliciousness as it has brought me over the years. Happy cooking!
Categories
| American Recipes | Broccoli Recipes | Broccoli Side Dish Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Rice Recipes | Side Dish Rice Recipes |