Description of this recipe
This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender broccoli florets with creamy, cheesy rice. It’s a perfect side dish for family dinners or a hearty vegetarian main course. The crispy Panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft, cheesy filling.
Why you will love this recipe
This casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible, from the tender broccoli and creamy rice to the sharp cheddar and crunchy topping. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters! Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable – you can easily customize it with different cheeses, vegetables, or even add some cooked chicken or ham for a heartier meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course, this Broccoli Rice Casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 20 ounces broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 2 heads of broccoli or 8 cups)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 1/4 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 32 ounces chicken stock or broth, low sodium
- 1 1/4 cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Casserole Topping
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch (23 x 33 cm) baking dish. Set aside. This preheating step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and a perfectly golden-brown topping. Greasing the dish prevents the casserole from sticking and makes serving a breeze.
Step 2: Cook broccoli by placing in a microwave-safe bowl and covering. Microwave for 3 1/2 to 4 minutes until broccoli is tender and bright green. Do not overcook. (Alternatively, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add broccoli, and cook for 4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain thoroughly before adding to recipe.) Perfectly cooked broccoli should be tender-crisp, retaining its vibrant green color and slightly firm texture. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and lose its appeal.
Step 3: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. Sautéing the onions in butter and olive oil creates a flavorful base for the casserole. The onions should be cooked until they are softened and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Stir in rice and garlic and continue cooking, stirring continuously, for about 1 minute. This step toasts the rice and garlic, enhancing their flavor and adding a nutty aroma to the dish. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 5: Add in the chicken stock, half-and-half, and salt and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender, about 22 to 25 minutes. The rice should absorb most of the liquid and become creamy and tender. Stirring frequently prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Carefully stir in the cooked broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, making sure to evenly distribute the ingredients. Gently fold in the broccoli and cheese to avoid breaking up the broccoli florets. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 7: Transfer to the prepared baking dish (or, if using an oven-safe skillet, consider baking it right in the skillet) and prepare the topping. Using an oven-safe skillet eliminates the need to transfer the casserole and reduces cleanup.
Step 8: In a small bowl, stir to combine the melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. This Panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the casserole. The smoked paprika enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Step 9: Sprinkle the topping over the casserole. Ensure that the topping is evenly distributed over the surface of the casserole for a consistent golden-brown crust.
Step 10: Bake the casserole for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s baking to prevent the topping from burning. The casserole is ready when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling hot.
Step 11: Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to set slightly.
COOKING Rating:
4.5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course. It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or baked ham. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It’s also delicious served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and lose its flavor. Cook it just until it’s tender-crisp.
- Use a good quality cheddar cheese: The flavor of the cheddar cheese will shine through in this casserole, so use a good quality cheese that you enjoy.
- Customize the topping: Feel free to add other ingredients to the topping, such as chopped nuts or herbs.
- Make it ahead of time: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving)
Calories:
350-400
Protein:
15-20 grams
Sodium:
500-600 mg
Conclusion
This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy rice, tender broccoli, and crispy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this casserole is a winner. The flexibility to adjust ingredients allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Simply add the frozen broccoli to the skillet along with the chicken stock and half-and-half. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the broccoli is fully cooked. Just be sure to not overcook it.
Q2: Can I substitute the half-and-half with milk?
A: While you can substitute half-and-half with milk, the casserole won’t be as creamy. Half-and-half has a higher fat content, which contributes to the richness and creaminess of the dish. If you use milk, consider adding a tablespoon of butter to compensate for the lower fat content.
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the entire casserole, including the topping, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Q4: Can I add meat to this casserole?
A: Yes, you can easily add meat to this casserole. Cooked chicken, ham, or bacon would be great additions. Simply stir the cooked meat into the rice mixture along with the broccoli and cheese.
Q5: What other cheeses can I use in this casserole?
A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in this casserole. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack would all be delicious. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
