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For this **Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole**, you’ll need:
– 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown rice)
– 1 medium head of broccoli (about 3 cups florets), steamed or blanched
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken soup)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use sharp cheddar for more flavor)
– 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
– 1/4 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
– 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
### Instructions:
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
#### 2. **Prepare the Broccoli**:
If you haven’t done so already, steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s tender but still has a slight crunch. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Afterward, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets for easy serving.
#### 3. **Make the Cheesy Sauce**:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream (if using), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a small amount for topping later. This mixture will create the creamy and cheesy base for your casserole.
#### 4. **Combine the Rice, Broccoli, and Sauce**:
Add the cooked rice and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine, making sure the rice and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.
#### 5. **Transfer to the Baking Dish**:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
#### 6. **Add the Topping**:
Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you like a bit of extra crunch, you can also top the casserole with breadcrumbs. For a golden, crispy topping, dot the breadcrumbs with small pats of butter.
#### 7. **Bake**:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown. If you used breadcrumbs, they should be nicely toasted by the end of the baking time.
#### 8. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Once your casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad or as a side to roasted meats. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly comforting!
### Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole:
– **Use Leftover Rice**: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover rice! You can substitute with brown rice for a slightly healthier twist, though white rice is traditional.
– **Adjust the Cheese**: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a richer or more complex flavor profile. Combining cheeses can elevate the dish even more!
– **Make It a Main Dish**: Add some protein to make it a one-dish meal. You can stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or even ground beef to turn this casserole into a hearty main course.
– **Make It Gluten-Free**: If you’re avoiding gluten, simply skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free breadcrumb substitute. You could also top it with crushed gluten-free crackers for added crunch.
– **Add Extra Veggies**: If you want to boost the veggie factor, feel free to add other vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas to the casserole. These veggies add extra flavor, nutrients, and color to the dish.
– **Freezer-Friendly**: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. Simply prepare the casserole, but skip the baking step. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
### Why This Casserole Works:
– **Comforting and Satisfying**: The creamy texture of the soup and sour cream, paired with the melted cheese and tender rice, makes this dish a rich, cozy meal that’s perfect for colder weather.
– **Nutritious**: With broccoli as the star ingredient, this casserole offers plenty of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s a great way to get a serving of veggies in without compromising on taste.
– **Flexible and Versatile**: As mentioned, this casserole can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the cheese, add more vegetables, or even switch out the soup for something different. It’s a recipe that can evolve based on what you have in your pantry.
### Final Thoughts:
**Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor! Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or turning it into a hearty main course, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. The blend of broccoli, rice, and cheese is simply irresistible, and with so many options for customization, you can make this casserole your own.
So, the next time you’re craving something comforting, easy to make, and full of flavor, give this **Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole** a try. It’s the perfect meal to bring family and friends together around the dinner table—delicious, filling, and full of heart.
