Print

Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheddar Sauce

Creamy broccoli rice casserole with melted sharp cheddar in a white baking dish.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Tender broccoli and fluffy rice bake in a creamy sharp cheddar sauce with a golden cheese topping. An easy, crowd-pleasing side for holidays or family dinners.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 (10.8-oz) pkgs Birds Eye Steamfresh Broccoli Florets, thawed
  • 2 cups cooked white rice

For the Sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature before baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base for the Cheese Sauce

  1. Cook the Vegetables:
  2. In a medium pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
  3. Add the onions and celery, and cook until softened and translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Seasonings and Thicken:
  5. Stir in the flour, minced garlic, and pepper.
  6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to form a roux.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Add the Milk:
  2. Gradually pour in the evaporated milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  3. Continue whisking over medium heat until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly.
  4. Melt the Cheese:
  5. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in paprika and 1½ cups of sharp cheddar cheese.
  6. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
  7. Season to Taste:
  8. Taste the cheese sauce and add salt and pepper, if needed, to adjust the flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

  1. Mix the Casserole:
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, and prepared cheese sauce.
  3. Stir everything together until the ingredients are fully coated in the cheese sauce.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
  5. Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  6. Pour the rice, broccoli, and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Top and Bake

  1. Add the Topping:
  2. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  3. Bake It:
  4. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let it Cool:
  2. Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
  3. Serve:
  4. Scoop out portions and enjoy your cheesy broccoli and rice casserole!

Notes

Substitutions: Use cooked brown rice in place of white rice. Fresh broccoli can replace frozen; steam it until just tender and drain well before mixing. Substitute concentrated vegetable base for the chicken base for a vegetarian version, adjusting the amount to taste. Monterey Jack can replace half the cheddar.

 

Preparation tips: Measure the rice after cooking. Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce, and drain the broccoli well to prevent a watery casserole. If the mixture fills your 2-quart dish nearly to the rim, use a slightly larger baking dish.

 

Serving suggestions and pairings: Serve with roast chicken, baked ham, turkey, or pork chops. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich cheese sauce.

 

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Use within 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a small splash of milk if needed.

 

Freezing: Cool promptly and freeze in tightly sealed, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The rice and broccoli may soften slightly after freezing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://jennifercooks.com/easy-cheesy-broccoli-rice-casserole/