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Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with fresh broccoli and melty cheese for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Broccoli, Casserole, Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, Vegetarian
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 5 cups broccoli florets fresh, cut to bite-size pieces
  • 2 cups white rice cooked
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 cup onion diced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups milk 2% or whole
  • 0.5 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried paprika
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese freshly shredded, divided
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter melted
  • 0.25 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian spices
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Begin by cooking 2 cups of white rice according to package instructions. While the rice cooks, wash and cut 5 cups of fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Dice 1 cup of onion finely.

Sauté the Onions and Make the Roux

  • In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux.

Whisk in Milk and Seasonings

  • Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Add ½ teaspoon garlic salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Cream Cheese and Part of the Cheddar

  • Lower the heat and stir in 2 ounces of cream cheese until it melts fully and blends smoothly. Next, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and combined, creating a rich and creamy cheese sauce.

Combine Broccoli, Rice, and Sauce

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, fresh broccoli florets, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure every grain and floret is coated in cheesy goodness.

Assemble the Casserole

  • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Prepare the Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons melted butter with ¼ cup panko bread crumbs and 1 teaspoon dried Italian spices. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer to add a delightful crunchy topping.

Bake to Perfection

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with 1 teaspoon of fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 Inch Casserole Dish
  • Whisk
  • Oven mitts

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should remain slightly crisp to avoid mushiness.
  • Prepare the casserole ahead and refrigerate before baking for convenience.