Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

$- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice - 2 cups vegetable broth - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup sour cream - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup milk - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs This casserole shines with its simple yet tasty ingredients. The jasmine rice offers a soft base. The vegetable broth gives it depth and flavor. Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. The cheddar cheese melts beautifully. Sour cream brings creaminess, making each bite rich. Garlic and onion powders enhance the overall taste. Salt and black pepper balance the flavors perfectly. Milk ensures a smooth texture. For extra crunch, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish a family favorite. Start by cooking the jasmine rice in vegetable broth. This adds great flavor. Bring the broth to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15 minutes. You want the rice to be tender and all the liquid absorbed. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Next, lightly steam the broccoli florets. This step is key for a bright color and crisp texture. Steam the florets for about 3-4 minutes. Check if they are tender but still vibrant green. If they look dull, they may be overcooked. Now, it’s time to mix everything together. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and steamed broccoli. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk. Don’t forget the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until you have a smooth and even mixture. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. Before baking, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. You're looking for a bubbly casserole with a golden top. Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set nicely. To make perfect rice for your casserole, use the right rice-to-liquid ratio. For this recipe, one cup of jasmine rice needs two cups of vegetable broth. This ratio gives the rice a nice, fluffy texture. Avoid overcooking the rice. Cook it just until the liquid is absorbed. This keeps the rice from getting mushy. To get bright and tender broccoli, steam it lightly. Steam the florets for about 3-4 minutes. This method locks in color and nutrients. You can also use a microwave to steam broccoli. Place the florets in a bowl with a bit of water, cover, and microwave for 2-3 minutes. Both methods work well to keep the broccoli vibrant. Choosing the right cheese can change the flavor of your casserole. Cheddar cheese is a great choice for its sharp taste. You can also mix in mozzarella for creaminess or pepper jack for a kick. To achieve a creamy consistency, combine the cheese with sour cream and milk. This mix will make your casserole rich and smooth. {{image_2}} You can add protein to your casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. Chicken or tofu are great options. If you choose chicken, use cooked, shredded pieces. You can also use diced, cooked chicken breast for a heartier dish. For a vegetarian option, cube firm tofu. To integrate your protein, mix it in with the rice and broccoli before adding cheese and sauces. Make sure to season your protein well. This step adds layers of taste. Cheese makes this dish creamy and rich. However, you can switch it up. Try using Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor. If you want a sharper taste, consider using Swiss cheese. If you need a dairy-free option, use plant-based cheese. Brands like Daiya or Violife melt well. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy taste without dairy. Instead of jasmine rice, you can try quinoa or brown rice. Quinoa adds protein and a nutty flavor. If you use brown rice, it will take longer to cook. Adjust your cooking time to about 35-40 minutes. Make sure to check the liquid ratio. Quinoa needs about 2 cups of water for every cup of dry quinoa. Brown rice usually needs 2.5 cups of water for every cup of rice. Keep these changes in mind for the best results. To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to four days. If you plan to reheat it, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for about 20 minutes until hot throughout. For quicker reheating, you can use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm. For long-term storage, freezing is the best option. Start by letting the casserole cool fully. Then, cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps flavors intact. You can freeze the casserole for up to three months. To thaw the preserved casserole, move it to the fridge for a few hours or overnight. For a faster method, you can use the microwave. Once thawed, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it bubbles. If using a microwave, heat on low power, stirring occasionally. Enjoy your delicious dish! You can use plain Greek yogurt as a great substitute for sour cream. It has a similar texture and taste. If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or blended silken tofu. Both work well in this casserole. They provide creaminess and keep the dish tasty. Look for a golden top. The casserole should bubble around the edges. You can also insert a knife in the center. If it comes out hot, it's ready. Let it cool for about five minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Yes, you can make it ahead. Prepare the dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. If you freeze it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This blog post detailed a tasty casserole featuring jasmine rice, broccoli, and cheddar cheese. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you prepare it easily. We explored useful tips to perfect rice and choose the right cheese. You also learned about variations, like protein or grain swaps. Finally, I discussed storage and reheating methods for your leftovers. Enjoy experimenting with this dish and make it your own!$

Indulge in comfort food with this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe that is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this easy dish combines jasmine rice, fresh broccoli, and cheddar cheese for a delightful meal. Discover the step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious casserole and bring warmth to your table. Click to explore the recipe and make this tasty dish today!

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Ingredients

1 cup uncooked jasmine rice

2 cups vegetable broth

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked jasmine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

While the rice is cooking, lightly steam the broccoli florets until bright green and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour the rice and broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy texture.

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

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8