Nif's Broccoli Rice Casserole Vegetarian

Experience comfort food at its finest with Nif’s Broccoli Rice Casserole, a wholesome vegetarian recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. This dish combines tender broccoli florets, hearty white or brown rice, and a creamy, homemade cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and parmesan for bold, savory flavor. Infused with the rich taste of vegetable broth and enhanced by a crispy, buttery panko topping, every bite delivers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Ready in under an hour, this casserole is a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare and guarantees to please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal packed with cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup white or brown rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cups parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
• 0.5 cups panko breadcrumbs

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2

Cook the rice according to the package instructions, substituting vegetable broth for water to add extra flavor. Once cooked, set aside.

Step 3

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens.

Step 6

Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7

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

Step 8

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Top with the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 9

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of melted butter (optional). Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole and garnish with paprika, if desired.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 11

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegetarian broccoli rice casserole!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1996.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3138.2

Total Fat 154.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 94.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 469.0mg	0%
Sodium 7390.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 290.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 22.0g	0%
Total Sugars 37.8g
Protein 157.8g	0%

Vitamin D 167.8IU	0%
Calcium 3745.6mg	0%
Iron 10.1mg	0%
Potassium 2066.9mg	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: 43.7%

Protein: 19.8%

Carbs: 36.5%