Prepare the Cheesy Rice Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gradually add the milk and stir until everything is well mixed and the cheese begins to melt into the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cheesy rice and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Set aside.
Prepare the Broccoli Topping: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you prefer softer broccoli, you can blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing.
Top and Bake: Once the broccoli is ready, spread it evenly over the casserole mixture in the dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if using, for an extra layer of flavor. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Tips: This casserole makes a wonderful side dish to roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian meal. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storing: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the rice seems dry.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Variants:
Vegan Cheesy Rice Casserole: For a plant-based version, substitute the cheddar cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. Use plant-based milk like almond milk and replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free version.
Chicken and Rice Casserole: Add cooked, shredded chicken to the rice and vegetable mixture for a heartier, protein-packed dish. Leftover rotisserie chicken works well in this casserole.
Spicy Cheesy Rice Casserole: Spice things up by adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rice mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Mushroom and Spinach Casserole: Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach to the rice mixture for extra flavor and a boost of greens.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh broccoli. Just sauté it briefly in olive oil or blanch it before adding to the casserole to ensure it doesn’t become too mushy during baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just pop it into the oven for the recommended time.
Can I use other vegetables in the casserole? Yes! This casserole is highly versatile, and you can swap in vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes. Just make sure to chop the veggies into small pieces so they cook evenly.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen for 45-60 minutes, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
How can I make the casserole more creamy? For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the rice mixture before baking. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup can be stirred in for extra richness.
This Cheesy Rice and Vegetable Casserole with a Broccoli Topping is a comforting and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a hearty side for a family gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table with its creamy, cheesy goodness.
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