Description
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
Instructions
- Cook the Onion: In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion in butter over medium heat until soft and translucent.
- 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.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake: Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until the casserole is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
- 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.
Notes
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.
