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To make Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you'll gather for this easy and tasty meal: - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups vegetable broth - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened at room temperature - 1/2 cup milk (whole or reduced-fat) - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste - 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Each of these ingredients plays a role in making the casserole rich and creamy. The rice acts as the base, while the broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrition. The cheeses bring the cheesy goodness that we all crave. Onions and garlic add depth of flavor, and the breadcrumbs provide a nice crunch on top. When you combine these ingredients, you create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. For the complete list and instructions, check out the Full Recipe. 1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the casserole bake evenly. 2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of long-grain white rice and 2 cups of vegetable broth. 3. Heat this mixture over medium-high heat until it boils. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. 4. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The rice should absorb all the broth and become tender. Fluff it with a fork and set it aside. 1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté these for 3-4 minutes. The onion should become soft and clear. 3. Next, add 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. The broccoli should turn bright green but stay crisp. 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, the sautéed onion and broccoli, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk. 2. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. 3. Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly coated and creamy. 1. Transfer the rice mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. 2. Sprinkle 1 cup of finely grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top. This will melt nicely as it bakes. 3. For extra crunch, add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs evenly on top of the cheese. 4. Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese should melt, bubble, and turn slightly golden. 5. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps set the dish before you serve it. You can find the complete details of this recipe in the Full Recipe section. To make your Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole shine, avoid overcooking the broccoli. Cook it just until it turns bright green. This keeps its crunch and bright flavor. If you cook it too long, it becomes mushy. Ensure even mixing of ingredients. When combining the rice, broccoli, and cheeses, use a big bowl. Stir gently, so every bite gets cheese and broccoli. This step makes a big difference in taste. If you're busy, you can prep this dish ahead. Cook the rice and cool it first. Chop the broccoli and onions, and store them in the fridge. You can also mix the rest of the ingredients. Just keep everything in separate containers. When you’re ready to bake, put it all together in your baking dish. Bake it fresh, so it tastes best. For reheating, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to keep it moist. Bake until it's heated through, about 20 minutes. This keeps the flavor and texture just right. {{image_4}} You can easily change the cheese in this dish. Try using mozzarella or gouda for a different taste. If you want something stronger, use blue cheese or pepper jack. Each cheese gives a unique flavor. Adding different veggies can also change the dish. You can mix in carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach. These veggies add color and nutrition. Just remember to cut them small for even cooking. To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure your broth is also gluten-free. This way, you keep the flavor without gluten. If you need a dairy-free version, choose plant-based cheese. You can also use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk. Cream cheese can be swapped with a dairy-free alternative. This keeps the creamy texture while making it suitable for everyone. To keep your Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole fresh, store it properly. - Refrigeration tips: Once you have leftovers, let the casserole cool. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. It will last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you know when to use it. - Freezing the casserole: You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage. Cut it into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember, when you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key to keeping the best taste. - Best methods for reheating: The microwave is quick and easy. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1 to 2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds. For a better texture, use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until hot. - Maintaining texture and flavor: To keep your casserole creamy, add a splash of milk before reheating. This helps restore moisture lost during storage. Avoid overheating, as this can make the rice dry and the cheese tough. Enjoy this cheesy delight just like the first time! For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Delight. Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole typically lasts for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers. Yes! You can easily make this casserole vegetarian. Replace the vegetable broth with a veggie broth. Ensure that your cream cheese and cheddar cheese are also vegetarian-friendly. This way, you keep all the great taste while catering to your diet. You can pair this casserole with many sides. A simple green salad works great. Roasted chicken or grilled tofu also makes a nice match. For a light touch, serve it with steamed vegetables or a side of fresh fruit. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Frozen broccoli is convenient and saves prep time. However, it may not have the same crunch as fresh broccoli. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding. This helps prevent excess water in your casserole. This recipe for Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole is easy and tasty. You can make it with simple ingredients and steps. Start by cooking rice in broth, then sauté onion and garlic. Mix everything with cheese, bake, and enjoy! Remember, avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep it crisp. You can even make this dish ahead and store leftovers. Adapt it to fit your diet by swapping ingredients, too. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole

Indulge in a comforting and cheesy treat with this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Delight recipe! This easy dish combines fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheeses, all baked to perfection for a delightful crunch. Perfect as a main or side, it’s a family favorite that's quick to prepare. Click through to discover the full recipe and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups vegetable broth

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened at room temperature

1/2 cup milk (whole or reduced-fat)

1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly.

    Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain rice and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the broth has been absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

      Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing its aromatic flavors.

        Add Broccoli: Incorporate the fresh broccoli florets into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the broccoli turns a vibrant green while retaining its crispness and texture.

          Mix Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion and broccoli mixture, softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and coated, ensuring a creamy consistency.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the rice and broccoli mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top with a spatula for a uniform layer.

              Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle the finely grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, creating an even layer that will melt beautifully during baking.

                Top with Breadcrumbs: For an added crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumbs (panko is recommended for extra texture) evenly over the cheese layer.

                  Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, while the breadcrumbs achieve a delightful crispness.

                    Cool and Serve: Once finished, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of this cheesy comfort dish!

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

                        - Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, serve in individual portions with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color, or drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish as a satisfying main or a hearty side!