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To make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups cooked brown rice - 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or cream of broccoli for extra flavor) - ½ cup milk - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup diced onion - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil These ingredients come together for a warm, cheesy delight. The brown rice provides a hearty base. Fresh or frozen broccoli adds color and nutrition. The cheeses create a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Cream of mushroom soup adds depth. Milk helps bind it all together. The onion and garlic give a nice flavor kick. Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste. Salt and pepper balance everything perfectly. Breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping, if you use them. Gather these items, and you're ready to create a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. How to cook brown rice Start by rinsing 2 cups of brown rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch. Then, cook it in a pot with 4 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 40-45 minutes, until the rice is tender. Drain any excess water and set it aside. Tips for chopping broccoli florets For fresh broccoli, wash it well. Cut off the thick stem and separate the florets. Aim for bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish. Sautéing onions and garlic In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 cup of diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent. This step adds great flavor to your casserole. Mixing everything in a bowl In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, broccoli florets, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of milk, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Ensuring even distribution Stir the mixture well. Make sure all ingredients mix evenly. This helps each bite be just as tasty. Once combined, add in the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix again until everything looks blended. Preheating oven to 350°F (175°C) Before baking, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). This prepares the oven for even cooking. Covering and baking instructions Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If you want a crunchier top, sprinkle ½ cup of breadcrumbs over it. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes to help the flavors meld together. Final baking steps for a golden top After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top turns golden and bubbly. This gives a lovely texture and color to your casserole. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Seasoning is key to a great casserole. Always taste your mix before baking. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking. If you want creaminess, add more cheese. I recommend extra cheddar or a blend of cheeses. This makes the dish rich and satisfying. Using pre-cooked rice or frozen broccoli can save you time. You can find these in most stores, and they work well. Also, preparing ingredients in advance helps a lot. Chop your onions and garlic the night before. This can cut down on your cooking time. Garnishing can make your dish pop. Fresh parsley or chives adds color and flavor. For side dishes, consider a simple salad or crusty bread. These pair well with the casserole and round out your meal. Enjoy every bite! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese in this dish. Try using Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Gouda gives a rich, smoky flavor. If you want something unique, mix in some blue cheese. For those who prefer a plant-based option, vegan cheeses made from nuts or soy work great. They melt nicely and add a creamy touch. Want to make your casserole heartier? You can add cooked chicken or turkey. Simply shred or dice the meat and stir it into the rice mix. If you’re vegetarian, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. They boost protein while keeping the dish filling and tasty. If you need a gluten-free dish, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use crushed rice cakes or cornflakes as a crunchy topping. For thickening agents, consider using cornstarch or arrowroot powder. These options help maintain a creamy texture without any gluten. To keep your cheesy broccoli rice casserole fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it. When reheating, I recommend using the oven or a microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F. Place the casserole in a dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. For the microwave, use a microwave-safe plate. Heat in one-minute intervals until warm. To keep it moist, add a splash of water or milk before reheating. You can freeze your casserole before or after baking. If freezing before, assemble it in a dish and cover well. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the freezer. If you freeze it after baking, let it cool first. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This way, you enjoy its cheesy goodness later! Baking this casserole takes about 35 to 40 minutes. First, cover it with foil and bake for 25 minutes at 350°F. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step makes the top golden and bubbly. Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients and place them in the baking dish. Cover it well and store it in the fridge. When you are ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you want a different flavor, try cream of broccoli soup instead. You can also make your own by blending cooked broccoli with cream and spices. Another option is to use a simple white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. This gives a nice creamy texture. You now know the key ingredients and steps to create a tasty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. This dish combines creamy cheese, tender veggies, and a crunchy topping to make a delightful meal. Remember, you can adjust the flavors and textures with variations and helpful tips. Whether you serve it fresh or reheat leftovers, this casserole is sure to please everyone. Enjoy your cooking journey, and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Delight your taste buds with this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, a perfect comfort food dish that’s easy to make! Packed with nutritious broccoli, creamy cheeses, and hearty brown rice, it’s a family favorite you'll want to serve again and again. Discover step-by-step instructions and tips for the perfect bake. Click through to explore this delicious recipe and enjoy a warm, cheesy treat tonight!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or cream of broccoli for extra flavor)

½ cup milk

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

        Once the onions and garlic are ready, add them to the rice mixture and combine thoroughly.

          Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

            If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for added crunch.

              Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

                After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

                  Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

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

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color!