Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Inspiration

I adore quick and comforting meals, and this Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a go-to favorite in my kitchen. It combines tender broccoli with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that's simply irresistible. Every time I make it, I'm reminded of cozy family dinners where this dish would steal the spotlight. It's an easy recipe that allows for flexibility; I love throwing in leftover chicken or cheese for an extra indulgence. Whether you're looking for a comforting side or a hearty main, this casserole never disappoints.

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:58:36.636Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how simple it was to prepare yet how rich and satisfying it tasted. The key is in the blend of the creamy sauce and the fresh broccoli that gives a lovely texture contrast. I prefer using brown rice for added nutrition, and it soaks up the flavor perfectly!

One tip I found helpful is to steam the broccoli just until it's vibrant green before adding it to the mixture. This ensures it maintains its bright color and crunchy bite, making the casserole visually appealing and delicious. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The creamy consistency is incredibly satisfying and comforting.
Packed with nutrients from broccoli, making it a wholesome dish.
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite proteins or cheeses.

      

Techniques for Perfecting Your Casserole

When making a creamy casserole, one key technique is ensuring even mixing of the ingredients. I suggest using a large mixing bowl to allow for sufficient space when combining the cooked rice, broccoli, and sauce mixture. This ensures that every component is coated in the creamy sauce, leading to a uniformly flavored dish. To avoid clumping, gently fold the ingredients rather than stirring vigorously, which can break down the broccoli florets.

Another important step is the cooking of the broccoli. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim for bright green florets by steaming them for just 3 minutes. If you prefer a bit more crunch, reducing the steaming time to 2 minutes will achieve that. Remember, the broccoli will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t be afraid of it appearing slightly underdone before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

While this casserole boasts a fantastic flavor with the traditional ingredients, it’s incredibly versatile. If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken or even a homemade roux mixed with vegetable broth for a lighter version. You might find that replacing half of the cheddar with a different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds a delicious twist and extra character to the dish.

For a vegan version, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a plant-based alternative and use cashew cream for extra richness. Using brown rice instead of white not only adds nutritional value but also brings a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the broccoli. Additionally, feel free to throw in other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to customize the casserole according to your personal preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful casserole.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Feel free to add your favorite proteins or additional vegetables to customize this casserole.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a deliciously creamy casserole.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Broccoli

Steam the broccoli in boiling water for about 3 minutes until bright green, then drain.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the cheese.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Add Breadcrumbs

If using, top with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. It's perfect as a side dish or a main course!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in cooked chicken or sausage. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole is that it can be prepared a day ahead. To do this, assemble the casserole but hold off on baking it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers; they can last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole makes for a hearty main dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside sliced tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to bring brightness to the plate. If you want to elevate it further, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving adds a nice pop of color and freshness.

For a cozy gathering, you can turn this casserole into a potluck favorite. Serve it straight from the baking dish with a side of crusty garlic bread for guests to enjoy. If you’re feeling creative, you can also make mini individual casseroles in ramekins, which not only look great but are also easy to serve and portion out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake before serving.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just defrost and drain it before mixing into the casserole.

→ What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use homemade white sauce or creamy soups like cream of chicken for a different flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.