Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

5 from 1 vote

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

I love how creamy and cheesy this Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli is! Made with tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this easy-baked casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or a satisfying main meal.

Prep Time20

Cook Time35

Total Time55

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: broccoli rice casserole, easy casserole, fresh broccoli recipe

Servings: servings

Calories: 552kcal

Author: Chef Jenn

Ingredients

For the casserole:

4 cups broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cups white rice cooked
¼ cup butter
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk or 1 cup milk and 1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded and divided
4 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed
½ teaspoon kosher salt
ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and Dijon and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, continuing to stir to prevent lumps.
Pour in the milk (or milk and cream mixture) and bring to a simmer, stirring continuously. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Taste and season with freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Combine the cooked rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Toss to coat evenly, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Chef Jenn's Tips

You don't need to blanch or precook the broccoli! If you do, it'll be mushy when the casserole is finished. Instead, just toss the raw broccoli chunks with the sauce and bake!
For a deeper flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and texture.

Nutrition