Ingredients:

• 2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 2/3 cup milk
• 8 ounces Muenster or Swiss cheese, shredded
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 cups cooked long grain white rice
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Steps to Make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and reaches the perfect golden brown finish by the time it’s ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

If you’re using frozen chopped broccoli, begin by steaming it according to the package instructions until it’s fully thawed and heated through. Once done, drain any excess water to avoid making the casserole too watery. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion, and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Soup Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and the cream of chicken soup until well combined. Add the milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, and black pepper to the bowl and mix thoroughly. This creamy mixture is what will bind everything together and give the casserole its rich and indulgent flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the broccoli, sautéed vegetables, and the soup mixture to the mixing bowl with the broccoli. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Add the shredded Muenster or Swiss cheese into the mixture and stir until it melts into the other ingredients, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Add the cooked long grain white rice to the bowl, stirring gently until everything is well combined. The rice will absorb the creamy mixture, giving the casserole its heartiness and filling texture.

Step 7: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour the broccoli, rice, and cheese mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly to fill the dish.

Step 8: Top with Panko Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delightful crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior of the casserole.

Step 9: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The casserole should be bubbly and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned around the edges.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander for a pop of color and a fresh flavor. Serve it hot as a main dish or a side dish to complement any meal. Enjoy!

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 35 minutes

Total Time:

• 45 minutes

KCAL and Servings:

• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 kcal (This can vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion size)

Why This Recipe is Timeless:

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with Muenster and Swiss Cheese is the kind of dish that never goes out of style. It has all the elements that make a recipe beloved across generations: it’s simple, affordable, and absolutely delicious. This casserole brings together the heartiness of rice, the creamy richness of soups, and the fresh crunch of broccoli, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is comforting.

The versatility of the ingredients makes it a timeless recipe, as it can be easily adapted with different cheeses, vegetables, and even proteins. You could substitute the Muenster or Swiss cheese for Cheddar or Gruyère, depending on what’s available or your personal preference. You can also swap the broccoli for cauliflower, spinach, or another vegetable you prefer. The flavors remain rich and comforting no matter what variations you try.

Its versatility extends beyond the ingredients as well. The casserole works wonderfully as a side dish to accompany meats like roast chicken, turkey, or pork, or it can easily be enjoyed as a vegetarian main course. This makes it perfect for a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a holiday meal.

Another reason this recipe is timeless is that it embodies the essence of comfort food. The cheesy and creamy texture, combined with the crispy breadcrumb topping, creates a dish that is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, making it perfect for any season. Whether it’s cold and rainy outside or a warm summer evening, this casserole will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. After assembling it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works just as well. Steam it for a few minutes until it’s tender, then drain the excess water before adding it to the casserole mixture.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze it before baking, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to cook, bake it directly from the freezer, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated through. If you’ve already baked it, you can freeze individual portions and reheat them in the microwave or oven.

Tips for Making:

• Use day-old rice: For the best texture, use rice that was cooked the day before. Fresh rice may be too soft and may not hold up as well in the casserole.
• Customize the toppings: If you prefer a crispier top, you can sprinkle extra panko breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers on top for more crunch.
• Add protein: For a more filling meal, try adding cooked chicken or sausage to the casserole for extra protein.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with Muenster and Swiss Cheese is a dish that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. The creamy, cheesy texture combined with the crunch of the panko breadcrumbs creates a satisfying contrast that keeps you coming back for more. This dish works wonderfully for any occasion—whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a holiday meal, or a potluck contribution, it will undoubtedly be a hit with family and friends.

The flexibility of this recipe means you can customize it with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, and seasonings. Whether you make it ahead of time or enjoy it fresh out of the oven, this casserole will always be a reliable and comforting dish that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. So, gather your ingredients and bake up this cheesy, creamy, and utterly irresistible casserole today. You’ll soon see why this dish is a classic that never goes out of style!