This Easy Broccoli Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. Made with tender broccoli, rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s the perfect addition to weeknight dinners.

Broccoli rice casserole is one of those classic comfort foods that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli and fluffy rice, making it a family-friendly side dish that pairs well with just about anything.

 

This easy version comes together with simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s cozy, reliable, and all comes together in no time on the stovetop.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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• Chicken Broth – you can use low sodium if you want to cut down on salt
• Milk – any type of milk will work for this
• Ranch Seasoning Mix – a store bought packet or Homemade Ranch Mix works great
• Long Grain White Rice
• Broccoli Florets – frozen are called for in this recipe, but you could use fresh and just add them later in the cooking process.
• Cheddar Cheese – shredding your own gives the best results

How To Make Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Cook Rice. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and everything, but the cheese to the pan. Stir until everything is well combined and bring it to a boil Once it starts bubbling, turn the heat to low and cover with a lid.
2. Simmer. Let cook for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and cooked.
3. Add Cheese. Take the pan off of the heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until it is melted. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and put the lid back on to let it melt.

Variations on Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Protein – You can add in cooked chicken to make it a whole meal. It is a great way to use up leftover chicken, turkey or even ham!
• Mix Up The Cheese – the recipe calls for cheddar, but you can use whatever you enjoy. A lot of recipes call for Velvetta to make it super creamy, but you could use Pepper Jack for some spice, Monterey Jack etc.
• Use Minute Rice – You can speed up the cooking time by using minute rice, just reduce the liquid to 2 cups if you do.
• Add More Veggies – You can mix in cauliflower, carrots or whatever other veggies you have to bulk it up even more.

Storage

The leftovers can be store in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat in the microwave or in a 350 degree oven until everything is warm.

To Freeze Broccoli Rice Casserole let it cool completely and place in an air tight container. It will last in the fridge for 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This can make a great main dish if you are going trying to go meat free or if you are feeding vegetarians. Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the recipe.

It makes a great side dish with just about anything! It is ready in about 20 minutes, so it is great for busy weeknights too.

• Best Meatloaf
• Honey Dijon Chicken
• Oven Baked Pork Chops
• Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin

More Easy Side Dish Recipes

• Roasted Edamame
• French Onion Rice
• Zucchini Fritters
• Cheesy Quick Bread