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Casseroles have long been a staple of home cooking, cherished for their versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting nature. These one-dish wonders bring together an assortment of ingredients to create a satisfying meal that can feed a family or serve as a delightful dish for gatherings. Among the myriad of casserole recipes, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole stands out as a nutritious and delicious option that combines the health benefits of broccoli with the creamy goodness of cheese. This dish not only appeals to adults but also wins over children, making it a family-friendly favorite.

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Discover the joy of comfort food with this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole! This versatile dish is packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and rich cheddar cheese, making it a family favorite for both kids and adults. Easy to prepare, it combines creamy goodness with a crunchy topping for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for any meal occasion, learn how to create this delightful casserole that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

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

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (canned or homemade)

1/2 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch casserole dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Cook the rice: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the vegetable (or chicken) broth with the uncooked rice. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork.

      Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, until the garlic is fragrant and golden.

        Prepare the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the florets for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain and chop the broccoli. If using frozen broccoli, simply allow it to thaw and drain any excess moisture.

          Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and stir everything together until well combined.

            Assemble the casserole: Pour the combined rice and broccoli mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top the mixture with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

                Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This cheesy and comforting casserole can be enjoyed as a hearty main dish or as a delightful side to accompany your favorite meals.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8