Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 3 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I love cozy Sundays, especially when they revolve around comfort food like this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. The creamy texture and melty cheese paired with tender broccoli make it a family favorite. I often prepare this dish as a side for roasted chicken or as a light main course. It's quick to assemble, and everyone at the table can't resist seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids. Get ready to enjoy a delightful and satisfying meal with this recipe!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:13:34.739Z

Making this casserole always takes me back to my childhood Sundays. I remember gathering around the kitchen table with family, the smell of broccoli and cheese wafting in the air. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a tradition. Using a combination of cheeses adds a depth of flavor that I absolutely adore.

I recommend using fresh broccoli for a crunchier texture, and be sure to mix in plenty of cheese for that gooey goodness. Baking it with a crispy breadcrumb topping gives it a delightful finish that everyone will rave about!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich cheesy flavor that kids and adults love
Perfectly tender broccoli infused with bold seasonings
Ideal for meal prepping or as a quick side dish

      

Perfecting Texture and Flavor

The key to achieving a creamy yet robust texture in the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole lies in the right balance of ingredients. The combination of cheddar cheese and cream of mushroom soup creates a rich base, while the fresh broccoli adds a touch of freshness. To enhance the flavor profile, consider using a sharper cheddar cheese; it introduces a more pronounced bite that pairs beautifully with the mild cream of mushroom soup. Additionally, don’t shy away from adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.

When mixing ingredients, ensure that the rice is fully cooled before incorporating it into the casserole. If the rice is still warm, it can cause the cheese to melt too quickly, leading to a less cohesive dish. Aim for cooked rice that has been resting for at least 15 minutes post-cooking, as it will blend better with the other ingredients and allow for even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole.

Customizing Your Casserole

This casserole is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. For instance, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or even crushed gluten-free crackers for added texture. Vegetarians can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade version or a plant-based alternative, ensuring that it remains creamy without any animal products.

Talking about serving suggestions, this casserole pairs wonderfully with various proteins. It complements roasted chicken, but you can also serve it alongside grilled salmon or even plant-based proteins like lentil patties. Leftovers can make a hearty lunch the next day; simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Broccoli

In a medium pot, steam the broccoli florets until slightly tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.

Add Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Serving options include pairing with a fresh salad for added crunch.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or ham to the rice mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great aspects of the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is its make-ahead capability. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap and storing it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This ensures consistent baking without any cold spots.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Slice it into portions and wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your casserole ends up a little too dry, it’s often a sign that it wasn’t mixed thoroughly or it needed more moisture. Next time, try adding an extra splash of milk or broth to the mixture before baking. You want the components to feel creamy before going into the oven, as they will further meld together during baking.

Another common challenge is achieving the desired golden brown top. If the top isn’t browning to your satisfaction after the initial baking time, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and switch to broil for the last few minutes. Watch it closely, as it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in just a minute or two!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?

Absolutely! Just omit the cream of mushroom soup and use a vegetable broth instead.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving.