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- 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian) - 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup milk - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping - Optional: 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for added heat

One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Casserole, a delicious blend of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and creamy textures. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this versatile dish caters to various dietary preferences. Packed with nutrients while being incredibly satisfying, it's a crowd-pleaser everyone will love. Bake it to golden perfection for a wholesome meal that combines ease and taste beautifully.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup milk (or your choice of plant-based milk)

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when the casserole is assembled.

    Sauté Broccoli: In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the fresh broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they just begin to soften. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside temporarily.

      Cook Rice: In the same skillet, add the uncooked long-grain rice. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring it frequently until it turns a light golden color. This will enhance the flavor of the rice.

        Mix Ingredients: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth, stirring in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

          Add Dairy: Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk and softened cream cheese until they are fully combined and the cream cheese has melted into a creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes.

            Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the sautéed broccoli back into the rice mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir slightly to incorporate the cheese throughout the casserole.

              Bake: Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese. If you’d like an extra layer of crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese. Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Cool and Serve: Once done baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings