37. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

$- 2 cups cooked brown rice - 2 cups broccoli florets - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup - 1/2 cup milk - Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt - Topping: breadcrumbs, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese This recipe for Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is simple and fun! You have your main ingredients like brown rice and broccoli. These two combine to give a nice base. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor. Cream of mushroom soup ties everything together, making each bite creamy and delicious. For the additional ingredients, don’t forget the milk. It helps keep the casserole moist. The spices like garlic and onion powder bring out the flavors. A little black pepper and salt balance everything perfectly. Then, you get to add a crunchy topping. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan cheese. This gives a lovely crunch on top. I love how this dish is comforting and easy to make. You can find the full recipe to guide you through. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish! - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease the baking dish with olive oil. - Combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheese, soup, and milk in a bowl. - Season the mixture with spices and mix well. - Pour the mixture into the greased dish. - Prepare the breadcrumb topping and spread it evenly on top. - Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This recipe is simple and rewarding. You can follow these steps easily and enjoy a tasty dish. The Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole stands out as a comforting meal. For the full recipe, check out the details above. - Use freshly cooked brown rice for best results. - Experiment with varying cheese types for different flavors. When I make Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole, I always start with fresh brown rice. It makes a big difference in texture. Soft, fluffy rice blends well with the cheese and broccoli. If you want a twist, try mixing cheeses. Cheddar gives a sharp taste, but mozzarella or gouda can add creaminess. Each cheese brings its own flair. - Add sautéed onions or bell peppers to the mixture. - Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. For added flavor, I love to sauté some onions or bell peppers before adding them to the mix. This simple step brings out their sweetness and adds depth. If you like some heat, try a pinch of cayenne pepper. It gives a nice kick without being too spicy. Experimenting with these flavors can elevate your casserole to new heights. - Serve in individual ramekins for elegance. - Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Presentation matters! I often serve this dish in individual ramekins. It looks fancy and makes serving easy. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh taste. Your guests will love the effort you put into both flavor and presentation. {{image_4}} You can amp up the protein in your casserole. Simply add cooked chicken or turkey. This makes the dish heartier. You can also add crispy bacon bits. The smoky flavor of bacon really brings it to life. If you want a vegetarian twist, swap out the cream of mushroom soup. You can make a homemade version with simple ingredients. Also, feel free to mix in different veggies like spinach or peas. These choices add color and nutrients to your meal. For a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This keeps the crunch without the gluten. You can also replace the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free kind. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty casserole. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Delight. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the dish fresh. When you are ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven for best texture results. The oven makes it warm and crispy, just like when you first baked it. You can freeze this casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This way, it will be ready to reheat and enjoy without losing its great flavor. Yes, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and additional nutrients. Brown rice takes longer to cook, but it gives a nice texture. You can use it in this casserole for a healthy twist. Substitute dairy cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based milk. Many brands offer great vegan cheese that melts well. Use coconut or almond milk for a creamy base. Absolutely! This casserole holds up well and can be easily portioned for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up when you are ready to eat. The edges should be bubbling and the top should be golden brown. If it looks crispy on top, it’s ready! You can also insert a knife in the center. It should come out clean. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, for optimal texture. This keeps the top crunchy. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave but the texture may change. Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorites for different flavor profiles. Mixing cheeses can create a richer taste. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese choices! This casserole offers delicious layers of flavor and texture. We combined brown rice, broccoli, and cheese for a hearty dish. Baking it creates a bubbly texture that's hard to resist. You can add protein or veggies for more twists. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and leftovers. Enjoy this easy recipe, knowing you can customize it endlessly. Satisfy your cravings today!$

37. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Elevate your dinner with this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Delight! This delicious casserole blends cooked brown rice, tender broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. It's an easy recipe that's perfect as a hearty vegetarian main course or a comforting side dish. Ready in just 50 minutes, this dish is sure to satisfy! Click to discover the full recipe and enjoy the cheesy goodness tonight!

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked brown rice, broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Season this mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix again to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the mixture.

Carefully pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the greased baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly and ensure an even baking surface.

In a separate small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the breadcrumbs are well-coated with olive oil, creating a flavorful topping.

Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole, ensuring good coverage for a crunchy finish.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling at the edges and the topping is a delightful golden brown.

After baking, allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving.

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

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant presentation, consider serving the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Delight in individual ramekins, adding a touch of class to your table. Alternatively, serve scoops into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish makes for a comforting side or a hearty vegetarian main course. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!