Name: Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked white rice (long grain or jasmine); 3 cups chopped broccoli florets (fresh or thawed from frozen); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp butter; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping

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This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is one of my go-to dishes when I want something hearty, comforting, and absolutely satisfying. With tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and loads of gooey cheese baked into every bite, this casserole feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to throw together with simple pantry and freezer staples. It’s a family favorite in my kitchen because it combines veggies and carbs in the most delicious way possible. Whether I’m making it as a side dish or a meatless main, it always delivers big on comfort and flavor.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked white rice (long grain or jasmine works well)
Fresh or frozen broccoli florets, chopped
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
Sour cream or mayonnaise
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Butter
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
In a large skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
I stir in the cream soup and sour cream, then add the cooked rice and chopped broccoli.
I mix in most of the shredded cheddar, leaving a little aside for topping. I season everything with salt and pepper to taste.
I pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spread it evenly, and top it with the remaining cheese.
For extra crunch, I sometimes sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top.
I bake it for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Servings and timing

This casserole makes about 6 servings and takes 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake—ready in under 45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a full meal. I’ve also used brown rice or quinoa when I want a healthier twist. For extra richness, I mix in a bit of cream cheese, or swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gruyère. If I’m going meatless, I stick with cream of mushroom soup for a deep savory flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the casserole has thickened too much. It also freezes well—just wrap tightly and reheat in the oven straight from frozen at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I often use frozen broccoli. I just thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the casserole to avoid extra moisture.

What kind of cheese works best?

I like sharp cheddar for that classic flavor, but I’ve also used a mix of cheddar and mozzarella or pepper jack for extra kick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prepare the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. I just bring it to room temperature before baking.

Is there a way to make this healthier?

Sure. I use brown rice, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version that still tastes great.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. I use a gluten-free cream soup and make sure any toppings like breadcrumbs or crackers are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is everything I want in a comfort food classic—simple ingredients, easy prep, and that irresistible cheesy goodness. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this dish always hits the mark. It’s warm, filling, and totally delicious every time.