Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Made with tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a rich homemade cheese sauce featuring sharp cheddar and parmesan, this casserole strikes the perfect balance of cheesy indulgence and wholesome ingredients. A crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a golden crunch, elevating every bite. Ready in just 50 minutes, this easy-to-make dish is a one-pan wonder that's perfect as a satisfying main or a hearty side. Whether you're feeding a family or prepping for a potluck, this cheesy casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a light coating of butter.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4

Gradually pour in the milk and broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk the mixture until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.

Step 6

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, and the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7

Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer.

Step 8

If using the optional panko breadcrumb topping, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 9

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and golden on top.

Step 10

Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli and rice casserole!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2313.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2877.9

Total Fat 138.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 79.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 388.1mg	0%
Sodium 6509.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 295.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.7g	0%
Total Sugars 37.9g
Protein 126.7g	0%

Vitamin D 214.7IU	0%
Calcium 2980.3mg	0%
Iron 12.5mg	0%
Potassium 2464.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.4%

Protein: 17.3%

Carbs: 40.3%