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Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

A scoop has been taken out of a creamy broccoli rice casserole, revealing the cheesy sauce and topped with a golden, crunchy crust.

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Make this ultimate comfort food casserole that combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It is a reliable, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (day-old works well)
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus 1/2 cup for topping
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, thawed and chopped small
  • 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) for topping
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Stir until the cheese is mostly melted and the mixture is uniform.
  4. Fold in the chopped broccoli florets. Taste the mixture and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
  5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the cracker topping.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before you serve it.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade cheese sauce made from a roux and sharp cheddar.
  • If you use frozen broccoli, do not thaw it first; add it directly to the mixture.
  • This recipe works well as a side dish for baked chicken or as a vegetarian main course.

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