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Side view of Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole showing the creamy cheese sauce coating the rice and broccoli florets.

Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Ultra-Creamy Comfort Food

This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole features fluffy long-grain rice and bright green broccoli smothered in a rich, homemade cheese sauce, finished with a thick, toasted orange cheddar crust. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or holiday sides.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 412
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Recipe Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups (285g) long-grain white rice Rinsed well
  • 4 cups (340g) fresh broccoli florets Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (32g) all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 cups (600ml) whole milk Room temperature preferred
  • 3 cups (336g) sharp orange cheddar Freshly grated and divided
  • 1 tsp (6g) kosher salt Plus more for boiling water
  • 0.5 tsp (1g) black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp (1.5g) garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp (1.5g) onion powder

Equipment

  • 1 White square ceramic baking dish (9x9 inch) Essential for the classic casserole presentation.
  • 1 Whisk To create a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
  • 1 Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan Used for the Mornay sauce base.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine rinsed rice with 3 cups (710ml) of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until fluffy. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Boil the florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately shock in ice water, drain, and pat dry.
The Sauce and Assembly
  1. In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes until a blonde roux forms.
  2. Slowly whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened. Stir in 1.5 cups (168g) of cheddar and seasonings until smooth.
  3. Fold rice, broccoli, and sauce together in a bowl. Transfer to the white ceramic baking dish. Top with remaining 1.5 cups (168g) of cheddar.
The Bake
  1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly with golden-brown toasted spots.

Notes

Always use fresh block cheddar for the best melt and toasted crust result.
Ensure the broccoli is patted completely dry to prevent a watery sauce.