This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole, often called Green Rice Casserole, is a comforting and cheesy side dish that's perfect for complementing chicken dinners or adding a rich, savory element to your Thanksgiving table. Easy to prepare and filled with delicious flavors, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 12.6 ounces frozen broccoli (about 4 cups)
- 1½ cups minute rice
- 8 ounces water chestnuts (1 can, drained)
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade, 1 can)
- 10.5 ounces milk (use the soup can to measure)
- ¾ pound Velveeta cheese (about 3 inches from a block)
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Recommended Equipment
- 9×13 Baking Pan
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Cook the broccoli according to the package directions and then drain any excess water.
- Cook the minute rice in 1 cup of water according to the package instructions.
Step 2: Combine the Casserole Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cooked rice, drained water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Velveeta cheese. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Becky’s Tips
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If refrigerated, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Just cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the casserole tightly covered with aluminum foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 296 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 38mg
- Sodium: 1065mg
- Potassium: 458mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 7g
- Vitamin A: 898IU
- Vitamin C: 40mg
- Calcium: 417mg
- Iron: 2mg
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and cheesy goodness to any meal. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a guaranteed hit for any occasion.
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Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe (Green Rice Casserole)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole, also known as Green Rice Casserole, is a delicious blend of rice, broccoli, and cheese that's baked to creamy perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, milk, and sour cream. Stir in the chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- In a small pan, melt the butter and toss the bread crumbs to coat. Sprinkle the buttery bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the breadcrumb topping.
- If you prefer, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh; just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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