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Best-Ever Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Best-Ever Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
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4.9 from 15 reviews

This Best-Ever Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and fluffy rice baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main, this casserole features a rich cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 12 ounces broccoli crowns, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 3 1/2 to 4 cups)
  • 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped

Dairy and Cheese

  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 packed cups), divided (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more for greasing the pan
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk

Grains

  • 3 cups cold cooked rice (preferably a long grain and wild rice blend)
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

Pantry Items

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven. Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and position the rack in the middle. Generously butter an 8×8-inch or 1-quart baking dish to prevent sticking and help with browning.
  2. Prep the ingredients. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized 1-inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. Finely chop the shallot and garlic. Grate the sharp cheddar cheese, reserving 1/2 cup to sprinkle on top later, and set the rest aside for the sauce.
  3. Combine the broccoli and rice. Add the cooked rice and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to the bowl with broccoli. Stir gently to mix evenly and season the rice and broccoli.
  4. Cook the aromatics. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped shallot, garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally until the shallots are tender and translucent, about 3 minutes.
  5. Start the cheese sauce. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. When melted, stir in the flour, cooking and stirring for about 30 seconds to form a roux and eliminate the raw flour taste.
  6. Add the milk. Gradually whisk in the 1 1/2 cups of whole milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue whisking occasionally until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  7. Add the cheese. Stir in the reserved cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, mixing well to balance the flavors.
  8. Combine the sauce with broccoli and rice. Pour the hot cheese sauce over the broccoli and rice mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Top with cheese and breadcrumbs. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top, followed evenly by the 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
  10. Bake the casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown in spots and the edges begin to crisp. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  • Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole through step 8 and refrigerate it, then add topping and bake fresh when ready to serve.
  • Rice options: Long grain and wild rice blend works best for texture and flavor, but any cooked rice you have will work.
  • Cheese substitutions: Sharp cheddar is recommended for a robust flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variation.
  • Gluten note: To make gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/best-ever-cheesy-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe/