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Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Easy Homemade with Crispy Cheese Topping

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A quick and easy creamy broccoli rice casserole with a crispy cheddar cheese topping, perfect for comforting family meals or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion (sweet yellow onion preferred)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set aside.
  2. Prepare the broccoli: steam or blanch fresh florets for 3-4 minutes until just tender and bright green. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess water.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the butter and onion mixture, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture will thicken slightly.
  5. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Mix in sour cream, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or smoked paprika.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, fold the cooked rice and broccoli into the cheese sauce until well coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown and crispy.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for a better melt and crispier topping. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during baking. Let the casserole rest after baking to firm up for easier serving. For extra crispy topping, add panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli rice casserole, creamy casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, quick casserole, broccoli recipe

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-with-crispy-cheese-topping/