If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that blends creamy, cheesy goodness with vibrant green broccoli and hearty rice, this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—packed with rich Velveeta cheese, tender sautéed veggies, and a satisfying crunch from toasted almonds. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or as a tasty side for a holiday spread, this recipe delivers flavor and texture in every bite, making your meal both nutritious and indulgently delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe just right hinges on a handful of simple ingredients that each add their own magic—creaminess, freshness, crunch, and that classic comfort-food vibe. Here’s what you’ll gather before starting your cooking adventure:
- Butter (3 Tbsp): Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- Onion, chopped (1): Brings sweetness and depth to the savory base.
- Celery, chopped (2 stalks): Lends a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
- Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5-oz can): Gives creaminess with a gentle mushroom undertone.
- Velveeta cheese (1 lb): Melts smoothly, creating that irresistibly cheesy texture everyone loves.
- Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic hint.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Balances and brightens the overall flavors.
- Cooked rice (3 cups): Provides a hearty, comforting base that soaks up all the cheesy goodness.
- Fresh broccoli florets (4 cups): Adds color, nutrition, and a slightly crisp bite that keeps the dish lively.
- Sliced almonds (4-oz package): Tops the bake with a delightful crunch and a nutty accent.
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
First, preheat your oven to 350ºF to ensure it’s perfectly heated when your casserole is ready to bake. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray—this little step makes for easy cleanup and helps the bake slide out nicely when serving.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Celery
In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and celery and sauté until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor, bringing natural sweetness and a hint of crunch that complements the creamy elements to come.
Step 3: Stir in Soup, Cheese, and Seasonings
To the softened veggies, add the can of unsalted cream of mushroom soup, 1 pound of Velveeta cheese cut into chunks, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Keep stirring gently until the cheese melts completely and the mixture turns into a smooth, luscious sauce. This blend of soup and cheese is what gives the bake that iconic creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Broccoli
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked rice and fresh broccoli florets. The rice soaks up all the cheesy sauce beautifully, while the broccoli adds a fresh pop of color and nutrition. Once everything is combined evenly, you’re ready to transfer it all to your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and sprinkle the sliced almonds generously over the top. Those almonds will toast up in the oven, adding a crunchy texture contrast that makes each bite extra special. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the topping turns golden and the casserole bubbles with cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe to the next level, fresh garnishes can make a big difference. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a vibrant splash of color and a mild herbal freshness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bake works wonderfully as a hearty side or a main dish. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak to create a well-rounded meal that pleases every appetite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the bake in individual ramekins topped with almonds and a light dusting of smoked paprika for color and subtle warmth. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking to create an ultra-cheesy crust that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor—simply cover tightly and refrigerate as soon as it cools.
Freezing
If you want to save this delicious dish for later, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the bake as directed but do not add the almonds topping—freeze it in a well-wrapped, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking with fresh almonds on top.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil. Warm at 350ºF for about 20 minutes or until heated through. The almonds topping stays crunchy best if you add fresh almonds in the last 5 minutes of reheating rather than reheating the leftovers topped with almonds.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Absolutely! While Velveeta melts perfectly for this recipe’s creamy texture, you can substitute with mild cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a similarly gooey result with a sharper flavor.
Is it necessary to cook the rice beforehand?
Yes, pre-cooked rice is essential here because the casserole’s baking time is just 30 minutes—enough to blend flavors but not long enough to cook raw rice through.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh broccoli gives a better texture and color. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can make the bake soggy.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom, try cream of chicken or cream of celery soups—they provide similar creaminess without changing the flavor profile drastically.
How do I make this recipe nut-free?
Simply omit the sliced almonds topping or replace them with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture without nuts that’s perfect for those with allergies.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a little celebration of simple, cozy ingredients done just right. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a seasoned pro, it’s easy to make and guaranteed to bring warmth and smiles to any table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your next go-to family favorite!
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Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake is a comforting and creamy casserole combining tender broccoli florets, cheesy Velveeta, and flavorful sautéed vegetables. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a vegetarian main, this easy-to-make bake comes together quickly and is topped with crunchy sliced almonds for added texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 4 cups small fresh broccoli florets
- 1 (4-oz) package sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Melt Cheese Mixture: To the skillet, add the cream of mushroom soup, Velveeta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture while stirring occasionally until the cheese has completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Then remove the skillet from the heat.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice and fresh broccoli florets, mixing until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top the casserole with the sliced almonds to add a crunchy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, substitute Velveeta with reduced-fat cheese and use low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
- You can add cooked chicken or turkey to make it a more substantial meal.
- Make sure the broccoli florets are small so they cook fully during baking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
