Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole (Print-Friendly Version)
Tender broccoli and fluffy rice baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce for a memorable and wholesome meal.
# What You’ll Need to Make This:
→ Casserole Base
01 -
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
02 -
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
03 -
3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
→ Creamy Cheese Mixture
04 -
1 cup heavy cream
05 -
1 cup sour cream
06 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
07 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
09 -
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 -
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
11 -
0.5 teaspoon salt
→ Topping and Garnish
12 -
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
13 -
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
14 -
Fresh parsley, chopped
# How to Prepare:
01 -
Set oven to 175°C (350°F) to preheat.
02 -
In a medium saucepan, combine uncooked rice with vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
03 -
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
04 -
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch chopped broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
05 -
Fluff cooked rice with a fork, then fold into the cream mixture. Gently stir in blanched broccoli and ¾ cup of cheddar cheese, incorporating thoroughly.
06 -
Lightly grease a 33 x 23 cm (9 x 13-inch) baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Evenly spread the broccoli rice mixture into the dish.
07 -
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over casserole, then add remaining cheddar cheese for a melted topping.
08 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly and topping is golden brown.
09 -
Remove baking dish from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
For a crispy topping, use fresh breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter before baking.
02 -
To make ahead, assemble completely and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Add 5 minutes to bake time if chilled.