Broccoli Rice Casserole

Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that combines tender broccoli, hearty rice, and gooey cheddar cheese into a deliciously creamy bake. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal, this casserole is a family favorite that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 (10-ounce) boxes frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 (10 3/4-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup (or use 1 can each of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions:

1. Cook the Onion: In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion in butter over medium heat until soft and translucent.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the thawed broccoli, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and cream of chicken soup (or both soups if using). Stir and cook until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
3. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
4. Bake: Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until the casserole is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
5. Make Ahead and Freeze: To prepare in advance, mix all ingredients (using cooked rice) and spoon into two or three smaller casserole dishes. Cover, label, and freeze. To cook from frozen, thaw overnight and bake for 1 hour, or add 10 extra minutes if cooking from frozen. Check for doneness before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Serve Hot: For the best texture and flavor, serve the casserole hot straight from the oven. The cheese and creamy mixture will be at its peak meltiness.
• Pairings: This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty vegetarian meal.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour. If cooking from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time and check for doneness.
• Portioning: If you plan to freeze the casserole, consider dividing it into smaller portions before freezing. This way, you can defrost and reheat only the amount you need.

Variations:

1. Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, turkey, or ham for a heartier meal. Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked turkey work particularly well.
2. Swap the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied flavors. You can also use a cheese blend for a more complex taste.
3. Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, use a can of cream of celery soup or a vegetable-based cream soup instead of cream of chicken or mushroom. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more variety.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to give the casserole a spicy twist.
5. Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat or fat-free versions of cream of chicken soup and shredded cheese to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing too much flavor.
6. Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free cream of chicken or mushroom soup and make sure your rice and any additional ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
7. Herbed Variation: Mix in a teaspoon of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill for added depth of flavor.
8. Crunchy Topping: Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling some crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions over the casserole before baking. This adds a delightful texture contrast.
9. Southwestern Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Southwestern flair. Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend.
10. Italian Twist: Add a cup of cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) and mix in some Italian seasoning. You can also use marinara sauce instead of cream of chicken soup for an Italian-inspired casserole.

FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
   • Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, then chop and use it in place of the frozen broccoli.
2. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with another type of soup?
   • Absolutely. You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or any other cream-based soup for a different flavor profile.
3. How do I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze it and bake it from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
4. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
   • Yes, use vegetable-based cream soups and omit any meat. You can also add extra vegetables to enhance the dish.
5. How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
   • Use gluten-free cream soups and ensure that all other ingredients, including the rice, are gluten-free.
6. Can I use instant rice instead of cooked rice?
   • Cooked rice is preferable for texture, but if you use instant rice, prepare it according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
7. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
8. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
9. How do I know when the casserole is done?
   • The casserole is done when it is bubbly and lightly browned on top. A food thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the center.
10. Can I add a crunchy topping?
    • Yes, you can add a crunchy topping like crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions. Sprinkle it on top of the casserole during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for added texture.