Broccoli Rice Bake

Craving a cozy, classic dish? Give this timeless broccoli rice casserole a try!

Ingredients for Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious homemade broccoli rice casserole:

• Broccoli: This easy recipe calls for frozen broccoli, but you can use fresh if you prefer.
• Butter: You’ll need two tablespoons of butter, divided. 
• Fresh veggies: Onions and celery lend texture and flavor. 
• Garlic: Take the flavor up a notch with fresh garlic. 
• Canned soup: Canned cream of mushroom soup and canned cream of chicken soup lend flavor and create a creamy texture. 
• Milk: Milk gives the mixture moisture. 
• Cheese: You’ll need shredded Muenster or Swiss cheese.
• Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a depth of flavor. 
• Seasonings: Season the broccoli rice casserole with paprika and ground black pepper. You won’t need salt, as the soup contains enough sodium.
• Rice: Cook the long grain white rice before you assemble the casserole. 
• Bread crumbs: Use store-bought or homemade bread crumbs. 

How to Prepare Broccoli Rice Casserole

Below is the complete, step-by-step guide for making this dish from scratch — but here’s a quick preview of the process to expect when making broccoli rice casserole at home:

1. Defrost and drain the frozen broccoli.
2. Sauté the vegetables and garlic in butter, then combine with the broccoli.
3. Add the soups, milk, cheese, mustard, seasonings, and rice, and mix well.
4. Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
5. Bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden and bubbly.

Test Kitchen Advice

• Add 1 cup chopped ham or cooked chicken to make this a more hearty main dish.

Can You Prepare Broccoli Rice Casserole in Advance?

Yes, this broccoli rice casserole is perfect for making ahead. Just transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover it securely, and refrigerate for up to two days. When ready, bake as instructed, then serve up and enjoy!

Storing Broccoli Rice Casserole

Keep leftovers tightly covered or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Is Freezing Broccoli Rice Casserole an Option?

Yes, you can freeze leftover broccoli rice casserole for up to three months. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat thoroughly in the oven before serving it again.

Contributions by Corey Williams

Ingredients List

• 2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli

• 2 tablespoons butter, divided

• 1 cup celery, chopped

• 1 cup onion, chopped

• 2 clove garlic, minced

• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup

• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

• 2/3 cup milk

• 8 ounces Muenster or Swiss cheese, shredded

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 3 cups cooked long grain white rice

• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Cooking Instructions

Prepare your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish.

Add broccoli and 2 tablespoons of water to a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 5 minutes, stirring once. Drain the excess water.

In the meantime, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Stir in the soups and milk, and heat through until fully combined.

Transfer the cooked vegetable mixture into the bowl with the broccoli.

Add shredded cheese, mustard, paprika, and pepper, and stir to combine.

Stir in the rice until fully combined, then spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.

Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden and bubbly, about 30 to 40 minutes.

Dig in and enjoy!

From the Editor's Desk

Nutritional Information (per serving)