There is no condensed soup in this homemade broccoli rice casserole dish. A family favorite side dish is created with fluffy rice, fresh broccoli cooked until crispy crisp, and a creamy, homemade cheese sauce.
For the ideal quick lunch, pair our Crispy Baked Chicken with this cheesy broccoli rice casserole and a tossed salad.(Broccoli Rice Casserole from Scratch)
This broccoli rice casserole is the solution if you’re seeking a side dish that your entire family will adore! Rice and broccoli mixed with my favorite silky cheese sauce have been cooked till bubbling. The outcome is a simple meatless supper that my entire family enjoys as a side dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole from Scratch (Pinterest)The recipe for broccoli and rice casserole.
The handmade cheese sauce is delicious (far better than just adding a can of soup), so don’t let that deter you from trying the recipe.
- This recipe’s sauce begins with a roux (which is just butter and flour cooked and milk added). For the greatest flavor, simmer the butter and flour for a few minutes before adding the milk.
- While stirring, gradually whisk in the milk and simmer until thick and bubbling. Add the cheeses and mix until creamy and melted.
- Rice and broccoli are combined with cheese sauce and baked in a casserole dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole variations
- Lighten it up: Light cheese and low-fat milk work well to make this a little bit lighter. With outstanding results, we’ve also substituted brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice.
- To make a chicken and rice casserole, we frequently include chicken as a source of protein (the perfect way to enjoy your leftover baked chicken breasts).
Ham or turkey also works well. - Change the cheese: Lacking cheddar? Use whatever you have on hand, like Swiss or Monterey Jack.
- Include vegetables: Include cauliflower or any other available vegetables to transform this dish from a side dish into a whole meal!
Suggestions for Serving
For vegans, broccoli rice casserole is a fantastic starter, but if you consume meat, any form of protein pairs well with it. Roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a beef roast go great with it!
Include some dinner bread with butter and a crisp, cold salad!
Broccoli Rice Casserole from Scratch (Pinterest)Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked white rice
sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¾ cup onion diced (about 1 small)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ teaspoon each garlic & black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt to taste
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
- Set the oven to 350°F.
- On low heat, soften and translucently cook the onion with butter.
Add the pepper, garlic powder, and flour. Cook for a further two minutes. - Pour the milk in gradually while stirring. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes thick and frothy over medium heat. Add 1 12 cups of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, dry mustard, and paprika after removing from the heat. until melted, stir.
- Boiling water should be used to cook broccoli for two minutes. Although it cooks more in the oven, you still want it to be slightly crunchy.
- Rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce are all combined. In a 2 qt. casserole dish that has been buttered. Add the remaining cheese on top, then bake for 35 minutes, or until bubbling and the cheese is just beginning to brown.