Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish or hearty vegetarian main. Packed with tender broccoli florets, fluffy white rice, and a velvety cheddar-Parmesan sauce, this baked casserole offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. A crunchy, golden breadcrumb topping adds the finishing touch for a satisfying bite every time. Ready in just 50 minutes, this dish showcases a homemade roux and fresh ingredients for a wholesome, homemade classic that will wow your family or guests. Whether you're planning a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to impress!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour taste is gone.
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle the mixture over the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole!
Calories |
2930 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 159.9 g | 205% | |
| Saturated Fat | 91.2 g | 456% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 458 mg | 153% | |
| Sodium | 7128 mg | 310% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 262.2 g | 95% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.9 g | 57% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.7 g | ||
| Protein | 127.6 g | 255% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.6 mcg | 28% | |
| Calcium | 2976 mg | 229% | |
| Iron | 13.4 mg | 74% | |
| Potassium | 1270 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.