Broccoli rice and cheese casserole is a classic dish that has graced family tables for generations. It’s the kind of comfort food that evokes warm memories and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. This recipe takes that timeless appeal and elevates it, creating a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and utterly delicious – reminiscent of something you might find in the Pioneer Woman’s kitchen.
This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a star in its own right. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal, this cheesy broccoli rice casserole is destined to become a family favorite. If you’re looking for a way to get everyone, even vegetable skeptics, to enjoy broccoli, this is it. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly this casserole disappears!
broccoli cheese rice casserole on a fork above a plate of it
Why This Recipe Works
This broccoli rice and cheese casserole recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
- Quick and Easy: From prep to table, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy cheese sauce and mild broccoli flavor are incredibly appealing to children.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences with variations in cheese, vegetables, and added protein.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble this casserole in advance and bake it later, saving you time on busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Pioneer Woman Style Casserole
Here’s what you need to create this comforting casserole:
- Broccoli Florets: 16 ounces, fresh or frozen. If using fresh, you’ll want to steam them lightly first. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and works just as well.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons, salted or unsalted. Butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- Onion: ½ cup, chopped white or yellow onion. Onion provides a savory base for the casserole.
- Cheese: 1 cup (4 ounces) Velveeta cheese, diced. Velveeta melts beautifully and creates a super creamy sauce. You can also use American cheese or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.75 ounces). This pantry staple forms the creamy base of the casserole. For a richer flavor, consider using cream of mushroom or cheddar cheese soup.
- Cooked White Rice: 2 cups. Cooked long-grain rice works best. Leftover rice is perfect for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare. Minute rice can also be used if you’re short on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Rice Casserole Perfection
Follow these simple steps to create a broccoli rice and cheese casserole that will impress:
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, microwave according to package directions, or steam until heated through. Drain well.
- Sauté the Onion: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This step builds flavor in the casserole.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the diced Velveeta cheese and cream of chicken soup to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked broccoli florets and cooked rice to the cheese sauce. Gently stir to combine everything evenly, ensuring the broccoli and rice are coated in the cheesy sauce.
- Bake or Serve: At this point, you have two options:
- Serve Immediately: For a quick side dish, you can serve the broccoli rice and cheese casserole right away.
- Bake for a Golden Top: For a more traditional casserole, transfer the mixture to an 8-inch square baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly around the edges. For a golden brown top, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
broccoli cheese rice casserole ingredients in a pot
Tips for the Best Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Whether fresh or frozen, avoid overcooking the broccoli. You want it to retain some texture and not become mushy in the casserole.
- Cheese Choice Matters: Velveeta provides a classic creamy texture, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
- Season to Taste: While the cream of chicken soup and cheese add salt, taste the casserole before baking and add salt and pepper as needed. You might also want to add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Reheating: Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave. For oven reheating, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to customize your broccoli rice and cheese casserole? Here are some tasty variations:
- Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: Add 1-2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken to turn this side dish into a satisfying main course. Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
- Ham and Broccoli Rice Casserole: Stir in diced cooked ham for a savory twist. Ham and cheese are a classic combination that works wonderfully in this casserole.
- Spicy Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel) or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Using pepper jack cheese will also add spiciness.
- Loaded Veggie Casserole: Incorporate other cooked vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or peas for a more nutritious and colorful casserole.
- Crunchy Topping: Top the casserole with buttered breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or French fried onions before baking for added texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Broccoli Rice Casserole
This versatile side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Protein: Grilled or baked chicken breasts, pork chops, ham steaks, roasted turkey, or baked fish.
- Vegetables: A fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans to complement the richness of the casserole.
- Holiday Meals: Perfect alongside Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or Easter dinner.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that travels well and is always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
broccoli cheese rice casserole on a plate
Storing and Reheating Your Casserole
- Storing: Store leftover broccoli rice and cheese casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes for a large portion, or 10-15 minutes for individual servings. You can also reheat in the microwave in shorter intervals, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole?
Yes, this recipe calls for cooked rice. Using cooked rice ensures the casserole has the right texture and cooks evenly in the oven.
Can I use frozen broccoli without thawing it first?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli directly. However, be sure to cook it according to package directions or steam it until heated through and drain well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, covered, up to 24 hours in advance. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces chopped broccoli, fresh or frozen
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, diced (4 ounces)
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking. Steam fresh broccoli until tender-crisp; cook frozen broccoli according to package directions and drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent.
- Reduce heat to low, add Velveeta and cream of chicken soup. Stir until cheese is melted and smooth.
- Stir in cooked broccoli and rice until combined.
- Transfer to an 8-inch square baking dish (optional). Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Broil for 1-2 minutes for golden top (optional).
- Serve immediately or let cool slightly.
Enjoy this comforting and easy Pioneer Woman inspired broccoli rice and cheese casserole! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
