Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Casseroles have been a big part of my life, starting with my mother and grandmother, who made them regularly. When I moved out, I carried on the tradition—this broccoli rice and cheese casserole is budget-friendly, quick to make, and perfect for leftovers.

Combining tender broccoli, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and creamy soup creates a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Even now, married with kids, it’s a go-to recipe that feeds everyone without breaking the bank. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Classic Comfort Food: This broccoli cheddar rice dish is a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings.
• Easy to Customize: Made with basic ingredients, it’s easy to swap in different cheeses, rice, or even add vegetables or meat to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: This casserole is affordable, easy to make, and always a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• White Rice: The filling base for the cheesy broccoli rice, adding texture and bulk to the dish while helping to bind all the ingredients together.
• Broccoli: Adds flavor, color, texture, and nutrition. Not a fan of broccoli? Feel free to swap it for your favorite green vegetable like green beans or spinach.
• Creamy Soups: The cream of mushroom soup creates a smooth, rich, and umami-flavored base, while the cheddar cheese soup adds cheesy flavor, creaminess, and a bit of protein.
• Milk: Whole milk moistens the casserole and adds richness and creaminess, thanks to its fat content, while helping to bind all the ingredients together with its protein content.
• Cheeses: Velveeta provides a smooth, meltable cheese sauce with a rich, creamy flavor, while cheddar and parmesan cheeses create a golden, crispy topping.
• Seasoning: Garlic powder and black pepper add savory depth and a subtle kick of spice to enhance the overall flavor of the cheesy broccoli rice.
• Ritz Crackers: Crushed crackers on top add a crunchy, contrasting texture to the creamy, cheesy base.

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.

Variations

• Lighter Options: To lighten up the dish, use light cheeses, low-fat soups and milk, and you’ll still achieve the same great cheesy rice casserole flavor! For healthier carb options, try brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice.
• Cheese Swap: Need different cheese options? Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or whatever cheese you have on hand for a more unique dish.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked, cubed chicken breasts, beef, or pork to make this cheddar broccoli rice a heartier meal.
• Kick Up the Heat: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, a splash of Tabasco, or even Sriracha to turn up the heat.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice

Ready to make this broccoli rice and cheese recipe a staple in your kitchen?Preheat your oven to 375°F, grease a 9×13″ or 3-quart baking dish, and follow these simple 3 steps to have a warm, comforting dish on the table in under an hour:

1. Step 1: Make the Base. Stir together the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, milk, Velveeta cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large bowl, until well combined. Then, gently fold in the cooked broccoli.
2. Step 2: Spread and Top. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the top with Parmesan and cheddar cheese. Finish with an even layer of crushed Ritz crackers on top.
3. Step 3: Bake and Enjoy. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is hot and melty and the broccoli and cheese rice is heated through. Grab a big spoon and dig in!

• Storing and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through.
• Grease the Dish: Spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Fold Broccoli Gently: When mixing in the broccoli, stir gently to keep the florets intact and maintain the vegetable’s texture in the broccoli rice casserole.
• Check for Doneness: The casserole is ready when the cheese is bubbly, and the Ritz cracker topping turns golden brown.

Try This Delicious Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

This cheesy broccoli rice casserole is hearty, filling, delicious, and so easy to make. You can’t beat that combination. Whether you’re single or a busy mom, this casserole is one that you need to make! It’s so easy and delicious, you’ll be hooked with just one bite. Give this a try, and I know you’ll make it a permanent part of your recipe rotation.

More Delicious Casserole Recipes

This Breakfast Casserole is loaded with hash browns, sausage, scrambled eggs, and cheese, and is the perfect breakfast recipe the whole family will enjoy.