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Broccoli Rice Casserole

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A comforting, cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with broccoli, rice, and two types of cheese, topped with a crispy Panko breadcrumb topping, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

20 ounces broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 2 heads of broccoli or 8 cups)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 onion, finely diced

1 ¼ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)

3 cloves garlic, minced

32 ounces chicken stock or broth, low sodium

1 ¼ cups half and half

1 teaspoon salt

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
  2. Cook the broccoli by microwaving it in a bowl for 3½ to 4 minutes or boiling in water for 4 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain thoroughly.
  3. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 6-8 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in the rice and minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
  5. Add chicken stock, half and half, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 22-25 minutes until rice is tender.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in cooked broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish (or bake directly in the skillet if oven-safe).
  8. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and Parmesan for the topping. Stir well.
  9. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole.
  10. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • To make it vegetarian, ensure the broth is vegetable-based.
  • Can add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
  • Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
  • Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or another cheese of your choice.

Nutrition