Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Ideas

I always look forward to Sundays, and this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole has become a beloved tradition in our home. Each week, we gather around the table to enjoy its comforting creaminess and bright bursts of broccoli. The combination of cheese, rice, and fresh vegetables creates a dish that's both hearty and flavorful. Plus, it's the perfect way to use up any leftover broccoli from the week. If you're searching for an easy yet delicious side dish, this casserole will surely become a favorite for your family too.

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:46:34.780Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how quickly it came together, yet it tasted like a labor of love. The creamy cheese sauce mixed seamlessly with the tender broccoli and fluffy rice, creating a dish that everyone raved about. I particularly love adding a crispy breadcrumb topping for that extra texture.

Another tip I've picked up is to use freshly steamed broccoli instead of frozen; it adds better flavor and retains its vibrant green color. This small detail elevates the dish and reminds me of wholesome Sunday dinners spent with family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Vibrant broccoli adds a nutritious punch
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a vital role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The combination of cooked rice and fresh broccoli not only provides a solid base but also balances the creamy richness of the cheese and soup. I always prefer using long-grain rice for its fluffy texture, which holds up well against the creaminess. Fresh broccoli brings a vibrant color and crunch, while its mild bitterness complements the sharpness of the cheddar cheese perfectly.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheeses in this casserole. While cheddar is a classic choice, adding a mix of Monterey Jack or mozzarella can introduce new flavors and a different meltiness. If you're looking to reduce calories, consider using a reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative that still melts well. This recipe is quite forgiving regarding substitutions, so feel free to use what you have on hand!

Baking Tips for Perfection

For an even bake, ensure your casserole dish is the right size; a 9x9 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe. If it's too small, the casserole can boil over, creating a mess in your oven. Conversely, if it’s too large, your casserole may dry out. Look for a golden-brown crust on the breadcrumbs and bubbles on the edges of the casserole as indicators that it’s done. A light tap against the dish should produce a slight jiggle in the center, signaling it's cooked through.

Another critical tip is to let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier. The casserole will firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. If you favor a softer texture, you can cover it lightly with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking, ensuring it stays moist while achieving that golden top.

Ingredients

Let's gather our ingredients for this delicious casserole!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that we have everything, we can start making this cheesy goodness!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your casserole!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until slightly tender but still bright green.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, and season with salt and pepper.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.

Add Breadcrumb Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy texture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

It’s time to enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked chicken or ham for protein. You can also use different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This broccoli rice casserole is a great candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the breadcrumbs just before baking, as they may become soggy if left overnight. If you want to freeze it, assemble the casserole but do not bake it; cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and it will last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

When reheating leftovers, the microwave can be convenient but may result in uneven heating. For the best texture, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. Covering the dish with foil can help prevent the top from getting too dark while the center warms up.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even as a vegetarian option with a simple salad. The bright green broccoli and creamy base contrast beautifully with bold flavors of savory meats. For a complete meal, add some rotisserie chicken into the mixture to turn it into a one-dish dinner that is rich and filling.

Feel free to enhance the casserole by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for additional color and nutrients. If you’re looking to spice things up, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a hint of mustard powder into the mix. These subtle alterations can elevate the flavor profile significantly while maintaining the recipe's comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can substitute or mix other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is also gluten-free.