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For Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, you need these key ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture. - 2 cups cooked brown rice - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup - 1/2 cup milk - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt to taste Using fresh broccoli is key. It gives a nice crunch. I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. The cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess. You can also make your own if you prefer. Don't forget to season well. Black pepper and garlic powder add depth. The breadcrumbs on top create a nice crispy layer. When you mix everything, be sure to stir well. You want each bit of rice coated in that cheesy goodness. This recipe is easy, but these details make it special. For the full method, check out the Full Recipe. 1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps cook your casserole evenly. 2. Sautéing onion and garlic: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion. Cook it until it turns soft and clear, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add 1 minced garlic clove. Sauté for 1 more minute until you smell the garlic. 3. Mixing the casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, broccoli florets, the sautéed onion and garlic, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and ½ cup of milk. Add ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 cup each of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir everything well to blend the flavors. 1. Transfer and spread mixture in the baking dish: Take your mixed ingredients and pour them into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly so it cooks well. 2. Prepare the cheesy breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle this cheesy mixture on top of your casserole. This adds a nice crunch. 1. Covered baking duration: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This helps keep the casserole moist. 2. Final baking process: After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Once baked, let it cool a bit before serving. Enjoy this easy family dinner! For more details, you can check the Full Recipe. Choosing the right cheese makes a big difference. I love using sharp cheddar. It adds a rich, bold flavor. Mixing it with mozzarella creates a nice, gooey texture. You can also try other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a twist. Experiment to find your favorite blend! Cooking rice properly is key to avoid sogginess. Use brown rice for a nutty taste and better texture. Make sure it’s cooked but still firm. If you cook it too long, it will mush together in the casserole. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove extra starch. This will help it stay fluffy. Garnishing your casserole can make it look fancy. Fresh parsley adds a burst of color. Chopped green onions are another great option. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese on top right before serving for an added touch. For side dishes, a crisp green salad pairs perfectly. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole. You can also serve it with crusty bread. This adds a nice crunch and makes the meal feel complete. For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe! {{image_2}} You can change this dish up easily. For alternative vegetables, consider using cauliflower or green beans. Both add great flavor and color. You can also mix in carrots or peas for a sweeter taste. Using different cheeses can make a big difference too. Try gouda for a smoky flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing cheeses can create a new and tasty twist. If you need gluten-free options, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use rice flour to thicken the sauce if needed. For plant-based variations, replace the cream of mushroom soup with coconut milk and a bit of nutritional yeast. Use vegan cheeses to keep it dairy-free. You can even add chickpeas for extra protein. These changes keep the dish tasty and friendly for all diets. To store leftover Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or microwave. If using a microwave, cover it to keep moisture in. Heat until it is warm throughout. Stir halfway through for even heating. To freeze your casserole, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use a freezer-safe container. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your casserole can last up to three months in the freezer. When you wish to eat it, remove it from the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. After thawing, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above. How to make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole gluten-free? To make this casserole gluten-free, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or make your own using cornstarch and broth. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. This way, you keep the yummy flavor without the gluten. Can this casserole be made ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just follow the steps and store it in the fridge before baking. When ready, pop it in the oven. It saves time on busy nights! What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, use cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce. You can also blend silken tofu with spices for a dairy-free option. This keeps the dish creamy without missing any flavor. For the full recipe, check out the details above! This article covers how to make a delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. You learned about the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and baking tips. I also shared variations and storage methods to keep your dish fresh. Now, with these easy steps, you can create a comforting meal your family will love. Try mixing up the ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy cooking!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Create a delightful family dish with this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe! Packed with nutritious broccoli, creamy mushroom soup, and two types of cheese, this casserole is a comforting meal everyone will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it's easy to prepare and sure to impress.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)

1/2 cup milk

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

    In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, sautéed onion and garlic, fresh broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and 1/2 cup each of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine.

        Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

          In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining cheese (1/2 cup of cheddar and mozzarella). Sprinkle this cheesy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

            Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes.

              Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

                Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole in individual portions, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. A side salad pairs wonderfully with this dish for a complete meal.