Go Back
In recent years, the trend of comfort food has surged, with home-cooked meals bringing a sense of nostalgia and warmth to our busy lives. Comfort food doesn’t just evoke happy memories; it also provides an opportunity to create dishes that nourish both body and soul. Amidst this culinary landscape, finding meals that combine indulgence with nutrition is essential. Enter the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Delight—a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and vibrant vegetables that makes for a delightful family meal.

One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Discover the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Delight, a heartwarming dish that perfectly balances comfort and nutrition. This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the goodness of broccoli and brown rice, creating a dish that's not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized to fit various dietary needs. Elevate your mealtime with this wholesome, flavorful casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients
  

1 cup uncooked brown rice

2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cottage cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of uncooked brown rice with 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. After cooking, remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.

      Sauté the Vegetables: While your rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute, stirring until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked brown rice, sautéed onion and garlic, broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (or equivalent-sized) baking dish with cooking spray or oil. Pour the rice and vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.

            Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top of the casserole is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden brown.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy your hearty and delicious casserole!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr | 6 servings