Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Gather the family around for a true comfort food classic: broccoli rice and cheese casserole. This inviting dish combines tender broccoli florets, known for their rich nutritional value and health benefits, and fluffy rice in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It is incredibly easy to prepare, versatile enough for any meal, and consistently ranks as a family favorite. Get ready for smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

You will quickly discover why this cheesy bake becomes a regular on your meal rotation.

• Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Incredibly Cheesy and Creamy: The combination of processed cheese and soup creates an irresistible, smooth texture.
• Versatile for Any Meal: It makes a fantastic side dish or can easily become a main course with added protein.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters often love this delicious blend of rice, broccoli, and lots of cheese.
• Perfect for Gatherings and Holidays: This casserole is a reliable crowd-pleaser for potlucks or festive dinners.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Enjoy a warm, hearty dish that reminds you of home with every savory bite.

Ingredients

Making the best broccoli rice and cheese casserole starts with simple, wholesome ingredients.

• 1 and 1/2 cups quick-cooking white rice (about 4 cups cooked)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 medium white onion, chopped
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup (1 and 1/4 cups)
• 8 ounces processed American cheese, divided (such as Velveeta) or 2 cups good-melting shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup crushed potato chips

Notes & Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Use frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable, simply thaw and drain it well before adding. Quick-cooking brown rice works too, for a whole grain option. If you prefer, swap Velveeta for an equal amount of good-melting shredded cheddar or a cheddar blend for a different cheesy flavor. Cream of mushroom soup is a great alternative to cream of chicken soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed, perhaps adding a pinch of salt or pepper.

Equipment

Gathering your tools before you start makes cooking a breeze.

• Large skillet
• 8×8-inch casserole dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect broccoli rice and cheese casserole. This recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time.

1. Prep Oven & Rice: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the quick-cooking white rice according to the package directions. Set it aside once done.
2. Sauté Aromatics & Veggies: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped white onion and fresh broccoli florets. Cook these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes transparent and the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make Cheese Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, 4 ounces (half) of the processed American cheese, and the milk into the skillet with the vegetables. Continue stirring over medium heat until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine & Transfer: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir the cooked rice into the cheese and vegetable mixture until everything is well combined. Pour this delicious mixture evenly into a lightly greased 8×8-inch casserole dish.
5. Top Casserole: Shred or crumble the remaining 4 ounces of processed American cheese over the top of the rice mixture. Evenly sprinkle the crushed potato chips over the cheese layer.
6. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted, the crushed potato chips are starting to turn golden brown, and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Carefully remove from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Elevate your cheesy broccoli rice bake with these simple tricks.

• Boost Flavor: For an extra layer of savory depth, cook your rice in chicken broth instead of water.
• Make it a Meal: Transform this side into a main dish by stirring in 1-2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken, diced ham, or browned ground beef.
• Quick Skillet Version: If you are really short on time, you can skip the baking step. Simply combine everything in the skillet and serve directly, omitting the top layer of cheese and chips.
• Homemade Cream Soup: For a healthier option, quickly whisk together 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup flour, and 1 1/4 cups milk or broth until thickened, then use in place of canned soup.
• Cheese Choice: Processed cheese like Velveeta provides an incredibly smooth and creamy texture. The science behind cheese melting explains how factors like protein structure and water content influence its texture. Shredded cheddar cheese will offer a sharper flavor and a slightly different, stringier melt.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations

Make this broccoli rice and cheese casserole your own with these ideas.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole is a perfect side for almost any meal. Enjoy it alongside weeknight dinners like roasted chicken or pork chops. It is also a fantastic addition to holiday feasts, pairing wonderfully with turkey or ham. Serve it with classic meatloaf or barbecued ribs for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad provides a nice contrast to the richness.

Make Ahead & Freezing Instructions

Prepare the casserole up to the topping stage (before adding the top cheese and chips). Cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Refrigerate for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen casseroles overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Add toppings right before baking.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover broccoli rice and cheese casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warm, or warm larger portions in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

Recipe Variations

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.
• Topping Alternatives: Instead of potato chips, try panko breadcrumbs, crushed butter crackers, or crispy French fried onions for a different crunch.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other finely diced vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
• Cheese Blends: Experiment with other good-melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend to vary the flavor profile.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious casserole.

Disclaimer: Nutrition information is an estimate based on ingredients and cooking methods. Actual values may vary depending on product brands, preparation, and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh broccoli?
Absolutely! Chop fresh broccoli into small florets for the best texture in this casserole.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.

What kind of rice is best?
Quick-cooking white or brown rice is ideal for this recipe, ensuring it cooks quickly and blends seamlessly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You certainly can! Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the toppings, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is Velveeta necessary for this broccoli rice and cheese casserole?
While not strictly necessary, Velveeta provides an ultimate, unparalleled creaminess that other cheeses struggle to match. You can substitute with a good-melting shredded cheddar.

How long does broccoli rice casserole last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months, thawing it in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This broccoli rice and cheese casserole is more than just a side dish; it is a warm hug in a baking dish. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its rich, cheesy goodness ensures it is always a hit at gatherings. We encourage you to try this comforting classic soon and make it a new family tradition. Share your creations with us and let us know how much you loved this easy, delicious recipe!