Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also surprisingly healthy? Look no further than this Broccoli Rice Casserole Cheddars recipe! This isn't your grandma's casserole – we've taken a classic comfort food and given it a vibrant, flavorful twist. It's packed with cheesy goodness, tender broccoli florets, and fluffy rice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your next potluck. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this healthy and delicious homemade creation.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the flavor base of your casserole.
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Steam Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcook the broccoli; you want it to retain some texture.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed broccoli and onion mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, milk (or cream), beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for added texture and a golden-brown crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly, and the top is lightly browned.
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Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Broccoli Rice Casserole:
- Don't overcook the rice: Use leftover cooked rice or cook it al dente to prevent mushiness in the casserole.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh broccoli will result in a brighter flavor and more vibrant color.
- Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious additions.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground meat to the casserole.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Broccoli Rice Casserole Cheddars recipe is a fantastic example of healthy, delicious, and easy food recipes. It’s perfect for quick dinner ideas and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! It’s one of the best recipes for a satisfying and comforting meal.