Easy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and easy broccoli rice casserole that tastes like childhood, perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with loved ones. It's cheesy, broccoli-packed, and features a crispy, golden topping.
Equipment
- large skillet or Dutch oven Oven-safe
- Small bowl For topping
Ingredients
Main Casserole Ingredients
- 20 ounces broccoli florets Fresh preferred, but frozen works. Bite-sized.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For sautéing aromatics
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion Finely diced
- 1.25 cups long grain white rice Uncooked
- 3 cloves garlic Minced
- 32 ounces chicken stock or broth Low sodium
- 1.25 cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese Grated
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese Grated
Topping Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter Melted
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese Grated
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, toasting the grains.
- Pour in the chicken stock and half and half. Add salt and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in broccoli florets and grated cheddar cheese until combined and cheese begins to melt.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese for the topping. Mix well.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the broccoli and rice mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Notes
This casserole is a great base for customization. Add other vegetables like peas or corn, or cooked protein like chicken or ham. For a different flavor, try Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese. If using frozen broccoli, add it directly from the freezer.