Discover a delightful casserole blending tender broccoli, fluffy white rice, and a creamy mushroom-base enriched with sour cream and milk. This comforting dish surprises with melted cheddar incorporated throughout and on top, adding a luxurious texture. Optional buttery breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying crunch that transforms every bite into a memorable experience.

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I love sharing my twist on Broccoli Rice Casserole because it’s both comforting and surprisingly nutritious. I combine 2 cups cooked white rice with 3 cups of fresh, lightly steamed broccoli florets, a can of cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/2 cup milk to make a creamy base that is rich in calcium and vitamins.

When mixed with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, a 1/4 cup of chopped onion and 1/2 tsp garlic powder, it creates a dish that not only warms you up but also packs considerable protein and fiber. The casserole has a flavor reminiscent of cheesy recipes like Cheese Whiz Broccoli Casserole and even Cheddar’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole Copycat dishes that many foodies love.

Some people like to top it with 1/2 cup breadcrumbs and 2 tbsp melted butter to add a crunchy texture. Its making is pretty simple and the taste is just amazing.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s super simple to make and still makes me feel like I cooked something really special. I love how the creamy mushroom soup and sour cream mix with the cheese and garlic to create a comforting flavor that always reminds me of home-cooked meals. I also really appreciate the way the crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a fun contrast to the soft, hearty filling. Finally, it’s one of those meals that hits the spot on busy nights when I want something tasty without too much fuss.

Ingredients

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White Rice: This ingredient gives you vital carbs and a soft, filling base for the dish.
Broccoli: Bright and crunchy, it contains fiber and vitamins that make it really healthy and tasty.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: It adds a creamy, earthy flavor; the mushrooms give a subtle depth.
Sour Cream and Milk: They combine for creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sauce well.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a melty texture and a tangy kick along with extra protein.
Breadcrumbs & Butter: These optional toppings add crunch and a rich, buttery flavor that rounds it off.

Ingredient Quantities

2 cups cooked white rice

3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for topping)

How to Make this

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1. Preheat your oven to 350°F

2. In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until it looks smooth

3. Stir in the cooked rice, lightly steamed broccoli florets, and chopped onion until everything is evenly coated

4. Fold in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, saving the rest for the topping

5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread it out in an even layer

6. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them with the melted butter and sprinkle the blend on top

7. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top for extra melty goodness

8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown

9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets just right and enjoy your meal!

Equipment Needed

1. Preheated oven
2. A large mixing bowl
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. A wooden spoon or spatula
5. A greased casserole dish
6. A knife for chopping the onion
7. (Optional) A small bowl for mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Sure, you can use brown rice, but just keep in mind that it might change the texture a bit and you may need to adjust the cooking time.

What do I do if I dont have cream of mushroom soup?

You can swap it with cream of chicken soup or even blend some mushrooms with a bit of cream to make your own version.

Is it okay to leave out the breadcrumbs and butter topping?

Yes, that topping is totally optional so if you want a lower calorie dish or you dont have any, just skip it.

Can I add other veggies or extra spices to this recipe?

Definitely, feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or peppers, and you can add extra spices like paprika or even fresh herbs for more flavor.

How long should I bake this dish after combining everything?

Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes or until it’s heated through and the top is golden brown.

Broccoli Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can swap out the cooked white rice for quinoa or barley if you want a different texture or extra nutrition.
If fresh broccoli isn’t available, you might try cauliflower florets in its place for a similar crunch and mild taste.
Instead of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of celery soup for a lighter flavor that still brings creaminess.
You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a tangy twist that also packs a bit more protein.
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko can be great alternatives to add that desired crunch.

Pro Tips

1. Try grating your cheddar yourself instead of buying the pre-shredded kind if you can; it tends to melt better and give a richer flavor.
2. When mixing the creamy ingredients, make sure they’re all about the same temperature so the mixture doesn’t get lumpy and remains super smooth.
3. For an extra crunchy top, you might want to toast the breadcrumbs in a little butter in a pan for a few minutes first – it really amps up the texture and flavor.
4. Don’t overdo the broccoli steaming – you just wanna soften it a bit. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose that fresh bite which is key to the dish.