Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole (Creamy, Cozy & Family-Friendly!)

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food side dish — creamy, cheesy, hearty, and easy enough for any night of the week. Made with tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a rich cheese sauce, it pairs perfectly with cozy classics like Pot Roast, Southern Fried Chicken, or Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. Great for holidays, potlucks, or simple family dinners!

Why You’ll Love This

• Creamy, cheesy casserole loaded with tender broccoli and rice

• Comforting, familiar flavor everyone loves

• Simple ingredients that come together easily

• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 2 cups cooked white rice

• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella

• 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)

• ¾ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup milk

• ½ small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Topping

• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• Extra shredded cheddar

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven & Dish

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.

2. Cook the Broccoli

   Steam broccoli until fork-tender (about 5 minutes). If using frozen, thaw and drain well.

3. Make the Filling

   In a large bowl, combine:

   • Cooked rice

   • Broccoli

   • Cheddar

   • Mozzarella

   • Cream soup

   • Sour cream

   • Milk

   • Onion & garlic

   • Onion powder & paprika

   • Salt & pepper

   • Mix until creamy and fully coated.

4. Transfer to the Dish:

   Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

5. Add the Topping (Optional):

   Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.

   Add extra cheddar if you want it extra cheesy.

6. Bake:

   Bake for 25–30 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden.

7. Cool slightly & serve: Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Ways to Serve

• Serve with cozy entrées like Prime Rib Roast, Southern Fried Chicken, or Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread.

• Add to a holiday table next to Classic Sweet Potato Casserole or Crispy Roasted Potatoes.

• Pair with simple proteins like Chicken Scampi, Smothered Pork Chops, or baked salmon.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake an extra 5–10 minutes.

Can I freeze it?

Yes — freeze before or after baking. If baking from frozen, allow extra time.

Can I substitute the cream soup?

Use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or homemade white sauce.

Can I add protein?

Shredded chicken, cooked ground beef, or diced ham work great.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes — just use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is the kind of classic comfort dish that always finds its way back to the table. The creamy rice, tender broccoli, and melted cheese come together in a simple, familiar way that feels both satisfying and nostalgic. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own or work as a dependable side alongside almost any main dish.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or a potluck, this casserole is easy, comforting, and always well-received. It’s one of those reliable recipes you can turn to when you need something cozy, filling, and guaranteed to please a crowd.