![- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 2 cups cooked white rice - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (canned or homemade) - ½ cup milk - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon paprika - 1 cup panko bread crumbs - 2 tablespoons butter, melted These ingredients create a warm, cheesy hug in a dish. First, the fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch and bright color. The cooked rice makes it hearty and filling. Sharp cheddar cheese adds flavor and creaminess, while the cream of mushroom soup brings moisture. The milk helps smooth everything out, making it rich. Onions and garlic give a lovely aroma and depth. Simple spices like salt, pepper, and paprika enhance the dish without overpowering it. The panko bread crumbs add a crispy top, making each bite delightful. Finally, melted butter coats the crumbs for extra flavor. - Baking dish (9x13 inch) - Large mixing bowl - Pot for blanching broccoli - Measuring cups and spoons Using the right tools is key. A 9x13 inch baking dish holds all the goodness. A large mixing bowl gives you space to combine all the ingredients well. A pot for blanching the broccoli ensures it cooks quickly and evenly. Lastly, measuring cups and spoons help you get the amounts just right. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions that guide you through each step. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water. Blanching helps keep the broccoli bright green and slightly tender. Place the florets in boiling water for about three minutes. Afterward, drain them and set them aside to cool. - Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. - Ensure everything is well mixed to ensure even distribution. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Stir until everything is well coated and evenly mixed. - Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. - Top with panko and bake for 25-30 minutes. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. In a separate bowl, mix panko bread crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this on top of the casserole. Bake it in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a golden brown top that bubbles slightly. To make the panko topping crunchy, mix it with melted butter. This helps it brown nicely. Spread the panko evenly over the top. It should cover the whole dish for great texture. When you bake it, the topping will get golden and crisp. When choosing broccoli, look for bright green florets. They should be firm, not soft or yellow. Fresh broccoli has a nice, strong smell. You want to avoid any limp or wilted stems. Always check for small dark spots, as they can signal age. If you want to switch the rice, try quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both options add unique flavors and textures. Quinoa has a nutty taste, while cauliflower rice is light and fluffy. They also lower carbs, which can be a bonus. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese. You can also swap cream of mushroom soup for a homemade version made with nuts or coconut milk. This keeps the creaminess without dairy. You can add proteins for extra heartiness. Chicken or turkey work well. For a vegetarian option, add tofu or chickpeas. They soak up flavor and make the dish filling. Trying different cheeses can change the taste, too. Mozzarella gives a stretchy, gooey texture. Gouda adds a rich, smoky flavor. Feel free to mix and match your favorites! {{image_2}} To serve cheesy broccoli casserole, use a large spoon to scoop out portions. Place each serving on a plate. This dish is best served warm and straight from the baking dish. For a beautiful touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. The green color adds brightness and flavor. You can also use chives or thyme for added flair. Arrange the plates neatly for gatherings, making each serving look inviting. Cheesy broccoli casserole pairs well with a simple salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette works great. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors. For drinks, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc is a nice choice. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, lemonade or sparkling water complements the dish well. These sides and drinks bring out the best in your casserole. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To store leftovers in the fridge, place the casserole in an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed well to keep out air. Leftovers stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. To enjoy the best taste, eat them within this time frame. To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. For reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout. This method keeps the texture nice and creamy. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli casserole later with that same great taste! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Making cheesy broccoli casserole takes about 45 minutes in total. You will spend 15 minutes prepping and about 30 minutes cooking. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you are ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. It may need a few extra minutes to cook through. This casserole pairs well with many side dishes. Here are a few ideas: - A crisp green salad - Roasted chicken or turkey - Garlic bread - Steamed carrots or green beans For drinks, try a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea. You can now create a delicious cheesy broccoli casserole with ease. We covered the key ingredients, tools, and steps for preparation and baking. Don’t forget the tips for perfecting texture and making your dish unique with various proteins or cheeses. This meal is not just tasty; it’s also versatile. You can enjoy it fresh or save it for later. Get started on this comforting dish and impress your family and friends!](https://foodishtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/f81e3deb-3e75-4a1b-b4f3-ab8dc131085d.webp)
Ingredients
Method
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 3 minutes until vibrant green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 6-8
- Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole warm directly from the baking dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of color.