Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup onion, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

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I love serving this Sunday Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole as a comforting side dish that brings smiles to everyone at the table. The combination of tender broccoli and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, creates a dish that feels special without being overly complicated. I often make it on lazy Sundays when I want to indulge in something warm and hearty. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies, making it a favorite in my house!

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:57:35.043Z

When I first made this casserole, I was just looking for a way to use up some leftover rice and broccoli. The moment I took that first bite, I knew I was onto something special. The creamy sauce, paired with the crunch of broccoli and the fluffiness of rice, felt like a warm hug on a Sunday evening. I experimented with different cheeses, and trust me, a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese really takes it to the next level!

One tip I’ve found particularly helpful is to slightly undercook the broccoli before layering everything in the casserole; this way, it retains that lovely crunch, and the cheese sauce binds everything nicely. Each scoop delivers that irresistible cheesy goodness and guarantees second helpings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and decadent cheese sauce that ties everything together
Perfect for meal prep – reheat well for busy weeknights
Loved by kids and adults alike for its delicious flavors

Choosing the Right Rice

When it comes to rice for this casserole, both white and brown rice work well, but they offer different textures and flavors. White rice provides a soft, fluffy base that absorbs the cheesy sauce beautifully, while brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more chewiness. If using brown rice, remember to cook it before mixing to ensure it softens adequately during baking.

Consider the cooking time of your rice; it should be fully cooked and cooled before incorporating it into the casserole. Using leftover rice is a great time-saver, as the casserole benefits from rice that has had a chance to chill, making it less sticky when combined with the other ingredients.

Broccoli Tips and Tricks

Blanching the broccoli is a critical step to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. By boiling it for only 2 minutes and then transferring it to an ice bath, you halt the cooking process, preserving both color and crunch. If you need to prep ahead, you can blanch and chill the broccoli a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

If fresh broccoli isn't available, frozen florets can be a convenient substitute. Just ensure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the cheese sauce to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This casserole is quite versatile—feel free to add cooked chicken for a heartier meal, or replace the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for a different twist. Mixing in fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can also elevate the dish with added freshness and complexity.

Serving this casserole alongside a simple greens salad adds a refreshing contrast to its richness. I often recommend a light vinaigrette drizzled over the greens to complement the creamy cheese flavors. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven, making this dish an ideal choice for meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start!

Instructions

Here’s how to assemble and bake your casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Broccoli

Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and onion until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Now you're ready to enjoy a delicious and cheesy casserole!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding cooked bacon or diced ham to the mixture before baking.

Storing and Reheating

To store your leftover casserole, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing the casserole—just make sure to leave out the breadcrumbs until you’re ready to bake.

When reheating, the oven is your best bet for maintaining texture. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. If using a microwave, cover the casserole and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until piping hot. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cheese sauce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole seems dry, it may be due to overcooking in the oven. A good rule of thumb is to check a few minutes before the time is up and look for a bubbly and glossy surface. If it’s getting too brown before it's fully heated, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.

On the other hand, if you find the mixture too runny, it might be helpful to add in a bit more rice or cheese to help absorb the excess moisture. Additionally, ensure that you’re not adding too much milk; the consistency can vary based on the cream cheese you use, so adjust accordingly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese beyond sharp cheddar. Mozzarella can give a pleasant stretchiness, while Gruyère offers a more nuanced flavor. For a healthier option, you could substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese; just note that it will slightly alter the taste and texture of the sauce.

For a gluten-free version, simply skip the breadcrumbs or substitute them with crushed gluten-free crackers. This will still provide a nice crunch on top without compromising the integrity of your casserole. Always taste and adjust seasonings to ensure the dish balances well with your ingredient choices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese.