Description
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a comforting, creamy side dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender broccoli, cheesy rice, and a creamy mushroom soup base, it bakes to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s an easy-to-make casserole that balances savory flavors and creamy textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 12.6 ounces frozen broccoli (about 4 cups)
- 8 ounces water chestnuts (1 can, drained and chopped)
Grains
- 1½ cups minute rice
Dairy & Cheese
- ¾ pound Velveeta cheese (about 3 inches block, cubed)
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 10.5 ounces milk (use the soup can for measurement)
Canned Goods
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (1 can, store-bought or homemade)
Liquids
- 8 ounces water (for cooking rice)
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli: Follow the package instructions to cook the frozen broccoli until just tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, then set aside.
- Prepare the rice: Cook the minute rice in 1 cup of water according to the package directions, usually bringing water to a boil, adding rice, covering, and letting it stand several minutes until absorbed and fluffy.
- Combine casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked broccoli, cooked rice, chopped water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cubed Velveeta. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the Velveeta begins to soften and distribute evenly.
- Assemble and top: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 to 45 minutes. Bake until the casserole is hot throughout, bubbly along the edges, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
Notes
- Ensure broccoli is well drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- Minute rice cooks quickly, so follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy rice.
- Velveeta cheese gives a creamy texture; substitute with other cheese if preferred, but texture and flavor may vary.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked when needed for convenience.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
