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Best Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 134 reviews

This Best Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with tender broccoli, fluffy basmati rice, and a rich cheese sauce infused with garlic, onion, and warming spices, this casserole is baked to golden perfection. The combination of sour cream, cream cheese, and cheddar creates a luscious texture that melts in your mouth, making it an irresistible way to enjoy vegetables and rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Base

  • 6 cups broccoli (cut into 1–2 inch pieces; you can also use leftover steamed broccoli)
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (basmati preferred)

Dairy & Fats

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or light works)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (light cream works as well)
  • 1/2 cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Produce & Aromatics

  • 1 onion (diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Dry Ingredients & Spices

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring for 1 minute until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Create Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux.
  5. Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Gradually add the cream while stirring to combine into a creamy base.
  6. Season and Thicken: Add the dry mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the mixture until it thickens and becomes bubbly, forming a luscious sauce.
  7. Add Cheese and Creams: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheeses fully melt and blend smoothly into the sauce.
  8. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cooked basmati rice, and the prepared cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  9. Transfer to Dish: Pour the broccoli-rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  10. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a cheesy crust.
  11. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the dish is bubbling and the cheese topping is lightly browned and golden.
  12. Serve: Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes, then serve warm as a delicious side or main dish.

Notes

  • You can substitute leftover steamed broccoli for fresh to save time.
  • Using basmati rice adds a fragrant and fluffy texture; however, any cooked white rice will work.
  • For a lighter version, use light cream and milk, but whole dairy provides a richer sauce.
  • If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
  • This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking directly from chilled.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount for cornstarch).

Keywords: broccoli rice casserole, cheesy broccoli casserole, baked broccoli casserole, comfort food, broccoli recipes, cheese sauce casserole

Find it online: https://dylangranv.com/best-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe/