Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole – A Creamy, Cheesy Family Favorite

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort side dish that pairs with just about anything, this broccoli rice and cheese casserole is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying, it’s a recipe that turns simple ingredients into something special. I first tried this dish at a potluck, and it was gone within minutes. Since then, I’ve made it countless times—sometimes with brown rice, sometimes with extra cheese—and it’s always a hit. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and ideal for holidays or weeknight dinners. Whether served alongside baked chicken or enjoyed as a cozy vegetarian main, this casserole delivers rich flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and fluffy rice in one comforting dish. It’s hearty enough to serve on its own yet makes the perfect side for roasted meats. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a no-fuss recipe that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers never go to waste.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Broccoli – Fresh or frozen broccoli florets work great. Blanch fresh broccoli briefly so it stays vibrant and tender without getting mushy.

Cooked rice – White or brown rice both work. White rice gives a softer texture, while brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar is classic for its bold, tangy flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce and creates that gooey, cheesy finish everyone loves.

Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup – Acts as the creamy base that binds the casserole together. You can use either, depending on your flavor preference.

Milk – Helps loosen the soup base and create a smooth, creamy consistency. Whole milk is ideal, but 2% also works.

Butter – Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Onion – Finely chopped onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the casserole.

Garlic – Just a bit of minced garlic brings a savory note that complements the broccoli perfectly.

Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the cheese and vegetables.

Breadcrumbs (optional) – For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole before baking.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup and milk, stirring until smooth and combined.

Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add the cooked rice and broccoli, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese. If you like a crispy finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and golden around the edges.

Let it cool slightly before serving so it sets perfectly for easy scooping.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and total cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake covered at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Variations and Customizations

Cheesy Upgrade – Mix in Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for an even creamier texture and richer flavor.

Chicken Add-In – Turn this into a full meal by adding cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken before baking.

Healthier Version – Use brown rice, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter take that still tastes amazing.

Vegan Option – Replace the dairy with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese; use a vegan cream soup substitute.

Bacon Twist – Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon on top before serving for a smoky crunch.

Spicy Kick – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to give the casserole some heat.

Broccoli-Cauliflower Combo – Use half broccoli and half cauliflower for a fun variation in color and texture.

Herb-Infused – Stir in chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh, aromatic note.

Crunchy Topping – Replace breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes mixed with butter for extra crispness.

Double Cheese Layer – Layer half the mixture, add cheese in the middle, then top with the rest for a gooey center surprise.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before mixing to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use instant rice?

You can, but the texture will be softer. Cook it according to package instructions before adding.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing. Thaw overnight before reheating.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add an extra splash of milk or a spoonful of sour cream before baking.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes—Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack all melt beautifully and change up the flavor profile.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish.

Can I make it without soup?

Yes, substitute the soup with a homemade cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and cheese.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use cooked rice that’s slightly firm or al dente before mixing it in.

Can I add vegetables besides broccoli?

Absolutely—peas, carrots, or even spinach make great additions for extra color and nutrition.

Conclusion

This broccoli rice and cheese casserole is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a potluck, or looking for a simple weeknight side, it’s a guaranteed hit every time. With endless ways to customize it and minimal prep required, it’s no wonder this dish has become a timeless favorite in so many kitchens. Serve it warm, watch it disappear, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction it brings to the table.

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