Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for my family. It's a hearty dish that combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with the comforting creaminess of melted cheese and rice. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings everyone together around the dinner table. What I really appreciate is how quickly it comes together, making it a perfect addition to our busy Sunday routine. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it a regular part of your meal plan!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:49:34.524Z

Making this casserole has become a cherished Sunday tradition in my home. I remember the first time I made it; I was surprised at just how quickly it came together. Using fresh broccoli rather than frozen elevates the dish significantly, adding a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice and cheese.

I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of garlic powder to the rice mix elevates the flavors even more. It’s these little tips that make this casserole not only easy to prepare but incredibly delicious. Everyone asks for seconds when I serve this!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and cheesy, making it irresistible for cheese lovers.
Packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli.
A comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings.

      

Perfecting Your Casserole

The key to achieving a creamy and satisfying texture in this casserole lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. The cream of mushroom soup provides a rich base, while the milk thins it out just enough to ensure it coats the rice and broccoli evenly. If you find your mixture too thick, add a splash more milk, but be careful not to oversaturate, as this can lead to a watery casserole.

Broccoli florets not only contribute to the flavor profile but also give the dish a vibrant color. Make sure to steam them until tender but still bright green, as overcooking can cause them to lose their nutrients and become mushy in the final bake. Set a timer for around 3-5 minutes once the water is boiling to achieve the perfect tender-crisp texture.

Topping Variations

While breadcrumbs are a classic topping for added crunch, consider mixing up your toppings for diverse textures and flavors. For instance, crushed crackers, like Ritz or gluten-free alternatives, can provide a buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese. Alternatively, a sprinkle of fried onions can impart a savory crunch that complements the cheesy filling beautifully.

For a more health-conscious twist, try using crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts. These not only add crunch but also boost the overall nutritional value of the casserole. Just remember to keep an eye on the baking time, as nut toppings can brown faster; check for golden edges to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the casserole:

For the Casserole

2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Make sure all ingredients are measured and ready to go before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your casserole:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Add Topping

If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for better slicing!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for variation. Adding cooked chicken or ham can also boost the protein content.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This casserole is great for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw; you can place it straight into the oven. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, ensuring it heats through to the center.

If you have leftovers, this dish stores quite well. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps preserve the dish’s creaminess, making it just as delicious the second time around.

Dietary Adaptations

For those needing a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and the cream of mushroom soup with a plant-based version or homemade cashew cream. Just ensure that any replacements you use still provide a similar level of creaminess to the casserole.

If gluten is a concern, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or even skip the topping altogether if you prefer a softer finish. Another option is to layer in some sautéed mushrooms for additional depth of flavor while keeping the dish free of gluten. These swaps allow everyone to enjoy a comforting dish without compromising dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but fresh broccoli provides better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is also gluten-free.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in the refrigerator, and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs nicely with a simple salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal.