This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful rice, all topped with a crispy garlic butter Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- 4 cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3-4 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon roasted garlic base
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Seasonings: celery salt, smoked paprika, all-purpose seasoning (to taste)
- 1.5 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1 cup crushed garlic butter Ritz crackers
- Diced parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli until it’s just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, you can blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
3. Make the Roux:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the roasted garlic base and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir to combine, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Creams:
- Gradually whisk in the half-and-half (or heavy cream), ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it thicken slightly.
- Stir in the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until the mixture is smooth and the cheese has melted. Season with celery salt, smoked paprika, and all-purpose seasoning to taste.
5. Combine Ingredients:
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked rice as the first layer. Top with the steamed broccoli.
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the broccoli, ensuring it covers all the pieces evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top.
6. Add the Cracker Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed garlic butter Ritz crackers with a bit of melted butter, if desired, for extra richness. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
7. Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with diced parsley for a fresh, colorful touch.
This Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors, perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this casserole as a main dish with a side of garlic bread.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy it as a hearty side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak.
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preference.
- For a lower-calorie option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, and is a good source of fiber.
- Cheese provides calcium and protein.
- Using garlic butter Ritz crackers adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and crackers.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and half-and-half.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite cheeses and seasonings.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting addition to your meal repertoire. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and crispy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the balance of flavors and the satisfying texture of this delightful casserole!