Dinner

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe

ByMaya Quinn December 5, 2025December 5, 2025

Introduction

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting classic that brings together creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice into one delicious dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead, this casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

A clear glass baking dish shows a creamy casserole with three visible layers: the bottom layer is white rice mixed with small green broccoli pieces, the middle layer is creamy white sauce enveloping the rice and broccoli, and the top layer is melted orange cheddar cheese with whole broccoli florets scattered on top. A metal spoon lifts a portion revealing the creamy texture and a mix of white, green, and orange colors. The dish sits on a wooden board with a white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Steam the broccoli until it is just tender, then set aside.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly into a baking dish.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture before baking.
Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
To make it gluten-free, simply ensure your broth and other ingredients don’t contain gluten.
Frozen broccoli works great and can be added directly after thawing slightly to avoid excess water.

Storage

You can assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake it fresh. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for best results.

How to Serve

A clear glass baking dish filled with a creamy, cheesy rice casserole topped with melted orange cheddar cheese and bright green broccoli florets scattered on top and within the creamy white rice mixture beneath. A silver spoon is lifting a scoop showing one layer of steamed green broccoli, a thick layer of soft white rice mixed with sauce, and melted cheddar cheese on top. The dish is placed on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works perfectly. Just steam it until tender before mixing it into the casserole.

Can this casserole be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.