This Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort-food side dish that combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and plenty of melted cheese into one warm and satisfying bake. It’s a classic family recipe that works for weeknight dinners, holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this casserole delivers big flavor without any fuss.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole
There are so many reasons this casserole earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- Simple ingredients, all easy to find and budget-friendly.
- Homemade—no canned soups, just fresh flavors and real ingredients.
- Incredible texture: creamy rice inside, crunchy golden topping outside.
- Customizable: easy to make lighter, vegetarian, or extra cheesy.
- Comfort food at its BEST, perfect for picky eaters and big families.
- Great for holidays, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
Ingredients for Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole
Main Casserole Ingredients
- 20 oz broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 ¼ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups (32 oz) low-sodium chicken broth
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. - 1 ¼ cups half-and-half
Or use whole milk for a lighter swap. - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crispy Topping
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
Ingredient Notes (Substitutions & Healthy Swaps)
Broccoli
Fresh broccoli gives the nicest texture, but frozen works perfectly too. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before mixing.
Rice
Long-grain white rice cooks evenly and stays fluffy. Brown rice can work but will require more broth and a longer cook time.
Cheese
Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor. You can substitute Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend if preferred.
Half-and-Half
For a lighter casserole, use whole milk or low-fat milk. For extra richness, replace part of the half-and-half with heavy cream.
Broth
Chicken broth adds savory depth. A completely vegetarian version works well using vegetable broth.
Breadcrumb Topping
Panko gives the best crunch, but crushed crackers, cornflakes, or regular breadcrumbs also work.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or boil the broccoli until it becomes bright green and just tender. This typically takes 3–4 minutes. Drain well and set aside. You want it slightly undercooked so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
Step 2 – Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Step 3 – Toast the Rice
Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice, letting it toast lightly for 1 minute. This boosts flavor and helps keep the grains separate.
Step 4 – Simmer the Liquid
Pour in the chicken broth, half-and-half, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice becomes tender and creamy—around 22–25 minutes.
Step 5 – Add Cheese and Broccoli
Remove the pot from the heat. Fold in the cooked broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. The cheeses will melt into the hot rice, creating a creamy, rich texture.
Step 6 – Prepare the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Panko breadcrumbs, paprika, and grated Parmesan. Stir until evenly coated.
Step 7 – Assemble and Bake
Transfer the broccoli-rice mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
Step 8 – Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier.
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Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole — Cheesy Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
A warm, cheesy, comforting casserole made with tender broccoli, creamy rice, and a crunchy golden topping—perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 20 oz broccoli florets, chopped
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 ¼ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half-and-half
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (topping)
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (topping)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (topping)
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (topping)
Instructions
- Steam or boil broccoli until bright green and just tender, then drain.
- Sauté onion in butter and olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1 minute.
- Add broth, half-and-half, and salt. Simmer 22–25 minutes until rice is creamy.
- Remove from heat and fold in broccoli, cheddar, and Parmesan.
- Mix melted butter, Panko, Parmesan, and paprika for topping.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 dish and add topping.
- Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best texture, keep the broccoli slightly undercooked and use freshly grated cheese for maximum melt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the broccoli. Slightly crisp broccoli prevents a mushy casserole.
- Use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that reduce melting quality.
- Check the rice early. Every stove heats differently; start checking at 20 minutes.
- Brown the topping if needed. If it isn’t golden enough, broil for 1 minute — but watch carefully.
- Season as you go. Taste the rice mixture and adjust salt before adding it to the baking dish.
- Let it rest. Cooling briefly helps the casserole slice more neatly.
Flavor Variations
1. Extra Cheesy Version
Add an additional cup of shredded cheddar or replace part of the cheddar with mozzarella for maximum melt.
2. Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake
Stir in 1–2 cups of cooked chopped chicken for a full meal version.
3. Mushroom Broccoli Casserole
Add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms to the onion mixture for extra savoriness.
4. Spicy Kick
Mix in ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
5. Herb & Garlic Upgrade
Add fresh parsley, thyme, or chives for a brighter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Baked or grilled chicken
- Holiday turkey or ham alternatives
- Roast beef or pot roast
- Salmon or white fish
- A fresh, crisp side salad
- Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
It’s also delicious served as a vegetarian main dish with a soup or salad.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezing
This casserole freezes very well.
- Allow it to cool completely.
- Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap or freeze in airtight containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~310 |
| Protein | ~11g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~440mg |
(Approximate values; will vary based on specific ingredients.)
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FAQ About Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole
How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Make sure the rice is fully cooked and creamy before baking. The oven stage is mainly for browning the top, not cooking the rice further. Cover with foil if reheating to keep moisture in.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything except the breadcrumb topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking. This makes it perfect for holiday prep or busy weeknights.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but brown rice needs more liquid and more time to soften. Add an extra ½–1 cup of broth and simmer until tender before baking.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Everything else in the recipe is already vegetarian-friendly.
How do I get the topping extra crispy?
Make sure the breadcrumbs are fully coated in butter. If needed, broil the casserole for 30–60 seconds at the end — just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
This Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole is the kind of cozy, cheesy, reliable dish that makes any meal feel special. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or preparing a holiday menu, this casserole brings warmth, comfort, and delicious flavor every time. Its versatility and simplicity make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.For more inspiration, check out this Authentic Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada You’ll Love or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!