Easy Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole -

Easy Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Casserole! This delightful dish combines fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and tender rice into a satisfying meal that kids and adults alike will love. Easy to make and packed with nutrition, it makes for an excellent side or main dish at family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With endless variations and the ability to sneak in veggies, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite!

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Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (you may substitute with cream of chicken)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus additional for topping)

1 cup vegetable or chicken broth

½ cup milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for an added crunch on top)

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, to enhance the flavor)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.

Cook the Rice: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the uncooked rice with the broth. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow it to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If you opt for instant rice, simply follow the instructions on the package and then set it aside.

Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, either steam or blanch the florets for about 3-5 minutes until they are just tender but still vibrant in color. For frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and ensure to drain any excess water afterward.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it's smooth and fully blended. Next, gently fold in the prepared broccoli and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until well distributed.

Transfer to Casserole Dish: Carefully pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.

Add the Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you're looking for a delightful crunch, add breadcrumbs on top as well. For an extra crispy finish, drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs.

Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a beautiful golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dive into your delicious Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Casserole and relish the flavors!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | 6 servings