The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
If you grew up on Grandma’s broccoli and rice casserole, this version brings back the nostalgia, with a modern, healthier twist. It’s packed with fresh broccoli florets, whole-grain brown rice, and all enveloped in a creamy cheesy cheddar sauce that’s irresistibly rich without being heavy. Whether you’re vegan-curious or cheese-loving, this Southern broccoli cheese rice casserole adapts to everyone at the table.
The combination of cheesy goodness and nutritious greens makes it a perfect family weeknight dinner, potlucks and holidays, make-ahead meal prep, or sneaky veggie wins for kids!
Recipe Overview: Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Nutrition Information:
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Serving Size 250 grams
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 264kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.7g15%
- Saturated Fat 4.7g24%
- Trans Fat 0.25g
- Cholesterol 24.7mg9%
- Sodium 453mg19%
- Potassium 337mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 35.3g12%
- Dietary Fiber 3.4g14%
- Sugars 3.7g
- Protein 10.3g21%
- Vitamin A 87 IU
- Vitamin C 44.6 mg
- Iron 1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
What You Will Need
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Optional Add-Ins (Mix and Match)
Step-by-Step Guide for the Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
– For extra flavor, add garlic powder or onion powder.
– You can substitute cauliflower if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Variations
| Version | Swap Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Use vegan cheddar (like Violife), dairy-free milk (oat or almond), and vegan mushroom soup |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup (like Pacific Foods or homemade) |
| Nut-Free | Stick to rice milk or oat milk; avoid almond or cashew-based alternatives |
| Low-Sodium | Choose low-sodium soup and skip added salt |
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Main Dish: Serve with a crisp green salad or lemon-dressed arugula
- Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with baked tofu, seared salmon, or meatloaf
- Holiday Spread: Add to your Thanksgiving or Easter casserole rotation
Make Ahead & Storage
- Prep Ahead: Assemble fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in a fridge before baking
- Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions
What goes with broccoli cheese and rice casserole?
It pairs well with protein mains like baked chicken, grilled salmon, or roasted tofu. For sides, try a green salad, garlic bread, or sautéed mushrooms.
What all do you put in a broccoli casserole?
Core ingredients include cooked rice, broccoli, shredded cheese, milk or cream, and cream of mushroom soup. Optional add-ins: sautéed onions, garlic powder, cooked chicken, or breadcrumbs on top.
Should I cook broccoli before putting it in a casserole?
Yes. Lightly steam or blanch it for 3–4 minutes. This ensures it’s tender but not mushy after baking.
Can you cook broccoli and rice in the same pan?
Yes, but for best texture, steam broccoli separately or stir it in during the last few minutes of rice cooking to avoid overcooking.
Why is my broccoli casserole watery?
Likely causes: too much liquid, undercooked rice, or using frozen broccoli without draining. Thaw and pat dry frozen veggies before use.
Can you prepare broccoli rice casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook both ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Assemble the casserole when ready or freeze the full dish unbaked.
How do I make a casserole moist?
Use enough liquid (milk, soup, or cream), avoid overbaking, and cover loosely with foil for part of the baking time to retain moisture.
