Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the earthy goodness of broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce and soft rice. It’s quick to make, incredibly filling, and packed with flavor. The blend of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups gives the casserole a rich, smooth texture, while the Muenster or Swiss cheese adds a wonderful cheesy depth. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this casserole is both hearty and comforting.

Ingredients

2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
2/3 cup milk
8 ounces Muenster or Swiss cheese, shredded
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 cups cooked long grain white rice
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Broccoli Rice Casserole

Directions

Prepare the Broccoli: Place the frozen broccoli and 2 tablespoons of water in a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 5 minutes, stirring once. Drain well and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped celery, onion, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Heat through, stirring occasionally.
Combine the Mixture: Add the cooked vegetable mixture to the broccoli in the bowl. Stir in the shredded cheese, Dijon mustard, paprika, and black pepper.
Add the Rice: Stir in the cooked rice until the mixture is well combined.
Prepare the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 3-quart baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is browned and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: To make it vegan, use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup, plant-based cheese, and dairy-free butter.
Spicy Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the casserole for some extra heat.
Different Cheese: Swap out Muenster or Swiss for cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella, depending on your flavor preference.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Simply steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole.

Can I freeze Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, place it in the oven at 350°F and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

If you want to make this casserole vegetarian, you can use a can of cream of mushroom soup or another vegetable-based soup in place of the cream of chicken soup.

What can I serve with Broccoli Rice Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. It also makes a great side dish for a holiday meal.

Conclusion

Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, tender broccoli, and crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, and it can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you make it ahead of time or serve it fresh, this casserole will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!