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- 2 cups cooked white rice - 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent) - 1/2 cup milk - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup crispy fried onions (for topping) Using precise measurements helps create the best results. For example, if you use too much rice, the casserole may become dry. Too little cheese can lead to a less cheesy flavor. Always level off your measuring cups. If you need to make substitutions for dietary needs, consider using brown rice for a healthier option or a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Each serving has about 300 calories. You get around 10 grams of protein and 15 grams of fat. The carbs come mainly from rice and broccoli. This dish is not just tasty but also fills you up. It's a great way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and cheesy way. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. - In a big bowl, mix the cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, soup, and milk. - Stir until all the ingredients blend well. - Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. - Place the casserole in the oven for 30 minutes. Check it halfway to ensure it heats evenly. - After 30 minutes, take it out and sprinkle crispy onions on top. - Return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the onions turn golden brown. - Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set. For the full recipe, check the link above. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole! To get your casserole just right, ensure even cooking. Mix all ingredients well. This helps the cheese melt smoothly. After baking, let it rest for about five minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend and the dish to set. Avoid overcooking or undercooking the broccoli. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy, while undercooked can be tough. Always check the texture before mixing. Also, be careful with ingredient swaps. Using different soups or cheeses can change the flavor. Stick to the recipe for best results. You can boost the flavor with spices or herbs. A dash of paprika adds warmth, while thyme can bring freshness. Mixing different cheeses also creates a unique taste. Try adding mozzarella for creaminess or pepper jack for spice. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises! {{image_4}} You can make this dish healthier with just a few swaps. - Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. These grains add fiber and nutrients. - Opt for low-fat cheese or plant-based options. This change cuts calories but keeps flavor. Adding proteins or new veggies can change the taste. - Add chicken or tofu for a protein boost. It makes the dish more filling and tasty. - Try different veggie mix-ins. Carrots, bell peppers, or peas can add color and crunch. You can change this casserole with seasonal veggies. - Use what is fresh in your area. Asparagus in spring or squash in fall can add unique flavors. - Adapt the recipe for holidays, like adding cranberries for Thanksgiving. This twist makes your casserole special for any occasion. For the full recipe, refer to the section above. After you enjoy your cheesy broccoli rice casserole, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep the dish fresh. Aim to refrigerate within two hours of cooking. This helps keep harmful bacteria at bay. When reheating, use your oven or microwave. For the oven, heat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes. In the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals to ensure even warming. You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If you freeze it before baking, assemble the dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Then, cover it with foil to prevent freezer burn. If you freeze it after baking, let it cool first. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes. Check that it is hot all the way through before serving. In the fridge, the leftovers last about 3-5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or the smell is off, throw it away. If the casserole seems dry or has changed color, these are also signs it has gone bad. It's best to be safe with food storage! You can use several options. One choice is cream of chicken soup. Another is cream of celery soup. You can also make a homemade version. Just mix milk, flour, and sautéed mushrooms. This gives a fresh taste without canned soup. Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Mix all ingredients and store in the fridge. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, add about 10 more minutes to the cooking time. This way, it stays delicious and fresh. Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. You can find many brands at stores. Also, check your rice for gluten-free labels. This helps keep the dish safe for those who avoid gluten. There are many easy ideas. Substitute cream of mushroom soup with a vegetable version. You can also add more veggies like carrots or bell peppers. These will add flavor and texture. Consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein. This keeps it filling and meatless. This blog post covered a delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. We discussed the main ingredients, helpful measurement tips, and nutritional information. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, baking, and how to avoid common mistakes. We explored variations, storage options, and answered frequent questions. In closing, this dish is flexible and easy to make. Use it as a base and personalize it to your taste. Enjoy creating your own version of this comforting casserole. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Indulge in the comfort of a homemade Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole that's perfect for any night! This simple and delicious meal combines creamy cheese, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice for a warm dish everyone loves. With easy prep and cooking steps, you can create a family favorite in no time. Explore the full recipe for tips and variations that will make this casserole your new go-to dinner. Click to discover the ultimate cheesy delight!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked white rice

3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup crispy fried onions (for topping)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the casserole bakes evenly.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice, broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Ensure that the ingredients are mixed thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.

      Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper into the mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture appears creamy.

        Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

          Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a cheesy crust that will melt beautifully.

            Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and the cheeses to melt.

              After 30 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Generously sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top, adding a delightful crunch.

                Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the fried onions are golden brown and crispy, achieving a lovely texture contrast.

                  Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the dish set slightly for easier serving.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole hot from the dish, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Pair it with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or a hearty salad, for a complete and satisfying meal! Enjoy!