Are you craving a warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole! This recipe is a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck contribution. It's a delightful blend of creamy Velveeta cheese, tender broccoli florets, and fluffy rice, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort food that's both delicious and surprisingly healthy. This recipe provides a fantastic healthy meal option, perfect for busy weeknights. It's one of the best recipes for a quick dinner, making it ideal for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (16-ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds a depth of flavor to your casserole.
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Steam the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. You can also steam the broccoli separately if you prefer. Don't overcook it; you want to retain some texture.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion and broccoli mixture, cubed Velveeta cheese, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined. The milk helps create a smooth and creamy sauce.
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Bake the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for added texture and a crispy finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
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Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef for a heartier casserole.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegetarian version.
- Creamier Casserole: For an extra creamy casserole, add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on variations and serving size)
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for both beginner cooks and experienced culinary enthusiasts. This easy recipe is packed with delicious flavors and is a great example of healthy meals you can prepare quickly. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!