Name: Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked white rice; 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed and drained); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole coming out of the oven, its golden top bubbling and its aroma filling the kitchen. That’s exactly the joy I feel every time I make this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up like a cozy blanket and brings everyone to the table with eager forks. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a lazy weekend indulgence, this recipe always delivers.

What I love most about this casserole is how it brings together everyday ingredients in a way that feels indulgent yet approachable. The tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and fluffy rice bake into a bubbly, golden dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal cleanup—just what I need on a busy night when comfort food is calling.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

It’s rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness.
Perfect for making ahead or meal prepping for the week.
A great way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters.
Customizable to your taste with easy swaps and add-ins.
Freezer-friendly for easy future dinners.
Ideal as a main or a side for any meal, especially during the holidays.
Requires basic pantry ingredients—no fancy items needed.
Satisfies both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike when tailored.

What Kind of Rice Works Best in Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

When it comes to this casserole, rice is more than just a filler—it’s the heart of the dish that soaks up all the cheesy, creamy flavor. I usually go with long grain white rice because it stays fluffy and doesn’t clump together. That said, jasmine or basmati also work beautifully for a lightly aromatic touch.

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, brown rice is a great choice. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and extra fiber, though it does take longer to cook. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it in, since the baking time won’t be long enough to soften uncooked grains. And yes—if you’re in a pinch, leftover rice from last night’s takeout works just fine too.

Options for Substitutions

The beauty of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is that it’s incredibly adaptable to what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Here are some easy swaps:

Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.
Rice: Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or quinoa for added protein.
Milk/Cream: Use evaporated milk, almond milk (unsweetened), or a bit of sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
Broccoli: Not a fan? Use spinach, kale, or even chopped asparagus.
Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or crumbled sausage to make it a full meal.
Gluten-Free: Ensure any canned soups or thickening agents are gluten-free, or make a quick homemade roux with GF flour.

With just a few simple changes, this dish can suit nearly any preference or need—without sacrificing that melty, irresistible texture.

Ingredients for This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Let’s break down the key ingredients that bring this creamy, cheesy dish to life—and why each one earns its place in the casserole dish.

Cooked White Rice
The base that gives the casserole its satisfying, hearty texture. It soaks up the creamy sauce and helps everything hold together.
Fresh or Frozen Broccoli Florets
Adds a vibrant green pop and slight crunch that balances the richness. Broccoli also brings in fiber, vitamins, and a fresh, earthy contrast to the cheese.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
The star of the show. Sharp cheddar gives that golden, gooey top and tangy depth throughout the casserole. Use freshly grated for the best melt.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
A pantry staple that brings a creamy, savory backbone to the dish. It binds everything together and deepens the flavor.
Milk
Helps loosen the soup and make the sauce creamy and smooth without being too thick or gloopy.
Butter
Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor. A small amount goes a long way to round out the creamy base.
Onion (chopped)
Delivers a subtle aromatic flavor and a little texture. Sautéing it first mellows the sharpness and adds sweetness.
Garlic Powder
A touch of seasoning that ties everything together with savory warmth.
Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning. Don’t skip tasting the mixture before baking—cheese and soup can vary in saltiness.
Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Not required, but a sprinkle on top adds freshness and a pop of color.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. If your rice isn’t already cooked, get that going on the stovetop or use leftover rice to save time.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender—about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them bright green and still slightly crisp since they’ll cook more in the oven. Drain well to avoid adding extra moisture to the casserole.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

In a skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step adds a touch of sweetness and mellow flavor that enhances the whole dish.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, sautéed onions, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth. Then fold in half of the shredded cheese until incorporated.

Step 5: Combine It All

Add the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and the sauce mixture to your casserole dish. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly so the broccoli and rice are well-coated with the creamy mix.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This will create that golden, bubbling crust we all love.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you like extra browning, broil the top for the last 2–3 minutes—but watch it closely!

How Long to Cook Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Once everything is mixed and layered, the casserole only needs about 25 to 30 minutes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. You’re not cooking raw ingredients here—just letting everything meld together and giving that cheese on top time to melt and bubble into golden perfection.

If you’re using a deeper or smaller baking dish, you might need a few extra minutes for it to heat through. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and the edges are gently bubbling.

For extra crispiness on the cheese top, you can broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
Drain broccoli well: Whether you’re using frozen or freshly blanched broccoli, be sure it’s not watery before mixing it in.
Taste your mix before baking: This is your chance to adjust seasoning—cheese and canned soup can vary in salt levels.
Add a little crunch: Want texture? Top with buttery crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
Make it ahead: Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Don’t overbake: You want the cheese melted and bubbly, but baking too long can dry out the rice.
Use a shallow baking dish: It helps the casserole heat evenly and gives more surface area for that golden cheese topping.
Let it rest: Give it 5–10 minutes after baking to set. It makes slicing and serving easier.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even with a recipe as cozy and forgiving as Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, a few small missteps can affect the outcome. Here’s what to avoid:

Using raw rice: The casserole doesn’t cook the rice—it just reheats and melds. Always use fully cooked rice.
Skipping the broccoli prep: Adding raw broccoli can result in unevenly cooked pieces. Blanch or steam it first for best texture.
Overloading with liquid: Too much milk or soup can make the dish soupy instead of creamy. Stick to the recommended ratios.
Not draining vegetables: Extra moisture from frozen or steamed broccoli can water down your sauce. Pat them dry or drain thoroughly.
Under-seasoning: While canned soup and cheese bring salt, the overall mix still needs a taste check before baking.
Overbaking: Leaving it too long in the oven can dry out the rice and make the edges too crisp.
Using low-fat cheese: It doesn’t melt the same way as full-fat cheddar, and you’ll miss that indulgent texture.
Crowding the baking dish: If the casserole is packed too tightly, it can bake unevenly. Use a dish that gives some space to breathe.

What to Serve With Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole?

This dish can shine as a main or side, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of other plates depending on the occasion. Here are some delicious options:

Grilled or Roasted Chicken

A simple protein like lemon-herb grilled chicken balances the richness of the casserole.

Baked Salmon

The light flakiness of oven-roasted salmon offers a lovely contrast, especially with a citrus glaze.

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the creamy cheese.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Soft, buttery bread is perfect for scooping up every last bite.

Glazed Ham

This makes an excellent holiday pairing—the saltiness of ham plays well with the cheesy rice.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Add an earthy complement with some garlic butter mushrooms on the side.

Crispy Fried Chicken

For a Southern-inspired plate, this casserole is a dreamy companion to crunchy fried chicken.

Coleslaw

For a cool, creamy counterpoint, especially if you’re serving it as part of a cookout or picnic spread.

Storage Instructions

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is just as good the next day—maybe even better. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: This dish is freezer-friendly. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave in 60-second intervals. For larger portions, cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 15–20 minutes to avoid drying out.

Estimated Nutrition

While exact nutrition can vary depending on the brands and modifications you use, here’s a rough estimate based on a standard serving size (about 1 cup):

Calories: 290–330
Protein: 10–12g
Carbohydrates: 28–32g
Fat: 15–18g
Saturated Fat: 7–9g
Fiber: 2–3g
Sugar: 2–4g
Sodium: 600–750mg
Calcium: 15–20% DV
Iron: 6–10% DV

For lighter variations, you can reduce the cheese, use low-sodium soup, or substitute in brown rice and low-fat milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese melts best in this casserole?

Sharp cheddar is a go-to for its bold flavor and smooth melting. You can also try mozzarella for extra stretch, or a mix like cheddar and Monterey Jack for creaminess and flavor balance.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—add 5–10 extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and works just as well as fresh.

Can I make it without cream of mushroom soup?

Definitely. You can substitute with a homemade roux using butter, flour, and milk, or use cream of chicken or cream of celery instead.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free version of cream soup or make your own sauce. Also ensure the rice and any add-ins (like breadcrumbs) are certified gluten-free.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Yes! Shredded chicken, cooked turkey, ground beef, or even sausage can all be mixed in to make it more filling. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked before adding.

Why is my casserole too watery?

It’s usually due to undrained broccoli or too much milk. Always drain vegetables well, and stick to the recipe quantities to maintain the perfect creamy texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Stir in some chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or use pepper jack cheese for a gentle kick. You can also top with hot sauce before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds (and thirds). It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable—whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or prepping a crowd-pleasing side for the holidays. I love how it delivers hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss, and that melty, cheesy top? It never gets old.

Try it once, and it just might earn a permanent spot in your comfort food rotation.