There are some dishes that just feel like a warm hug. For me, this Classic Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe is exactly that. It’s the kind of comforting food that brings everyone to the table.
Whether you need a standout side dish for a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is a total winner. It is one of those fantastic Broccoli And Cheese Recipes that never gets old.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, what’s not to love? It is a simple dish that delivers big on flavor. The combination of tender broccoli and fluffy rice swimming in a rich cheese sauce is just heavenly.
The best part might be the crunchy topping. Those buttery cracker crumbs get golden brown in the oven, adding the perfect texture to every single bite. It’s a truly Easy Broccoli Casserole to put together.
Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies on the plate. Even picky eaters seem to love broccoli when it’s covered in this much cheese. It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
- 3 1/2 cups cooked rice, any variety
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups milk, whole milk is recommended
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup crushed buttery cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- cooking spray
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Get Ready
First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Grab a 9 by 13 inch pan and give it a good coat with cooking spray. This will save you a lot of cleanup time later!
Step 2: Make The Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them to get soft and translucent.
Now, sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir it all together. Let it cook for just one minute. This step is super important for a thick, creamy sauce.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Let the sauce cook, stirring now and then, for 4 to 5 minutes until it’s thick enough to coat a spoon.
It’s time for the cheese! Add the cream cheese, 2 cups of the shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is melted and beautifully smooth.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, mix your steamed broccoli and cooked rice together. Pour that glorious cheese sauce over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble And Bake
Pour the broccoli mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. This will soon become a beautiful Cheddar Broccoli Casserole.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Then, add the crushed cracker crumbs for that perfect crunchy finish.
Bake for 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
How To Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, which is a big if, storing them is simple. Let the casserole cool completely first. Then cover the pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven.
Tips
Want to prep ahead? You can assemble the casserole without the cracker topping up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and pop it in the fridge.
When you are ready to bake, add the cracker crumbs right before it goes into the oven. You may need to add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold.
Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika works just fine. You can also use different cheeses. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack would be delicious.
Conclusion
This Classic Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe is more than just a dish. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that is easy enough for any night of the week.
It brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. I hope your family enjoys this wonderful Easy Broccoli Casserole as much as mine does. Happy cooking!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you absolutely can. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the recipe. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
What Kind Of Rice Is Best?
Any kind of cooked rice works well. Long grain white rice, brown rice, or even a wild rice blend would be great. Use whatever you have on hand.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead Of Time?
Yes! This is a great make ahead dish. Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, but leave off the cracker topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the crackers just before baking and add about 10 minutes to the cook time.
Classic Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe
A comforting and classic cheesy broccoli casserole featuring tender broccoli and rice in a rich, homemade cheese sauce, all topped with crispy, buttery cracker crumbs. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or holiday side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Coat a 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray.
- Melt butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stir, and cook for one minute.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cream cheese, 2 cups of the shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli and cooked rice. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the crushed cracker crumbs.
- Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate without the cracker topping. Add the crackers right before baking and add about 10 extra minutes to the bake time.
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works well as a substitute.
Feel free to use other cheeses! A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack would be delicious.
Nutrition
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