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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a well-made casserole. Among the myriad options available, the Cheesy Bliss: Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole stands out, not only for its delightful combination of flavors but also for its ability to bring families together around the dinner table. This dish encapsulates the essence of home cooking—simple, hearty, and irresistibly delicious. The creamy texture paired with the rich, cheesy flavor and the nutritious crunch of broccoli creates a harmonious balance that makes this casserole a favorite for many.

Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Bliss: Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole. This dish is a delightful fusion of creamy textures and rich flavors that will bring your family together for heartwarming meals. Packed with nutritious broccoli, fluffy rice, and a cheesy sauce, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare and oh-so-satisfying, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite that nourishes both body and soul. Dive into this delicious recipe and enjoy the cozy warmth it brings!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked white or brown rice

3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)

1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup sour cream

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for mixing with breadcrumbs)

½ teaspoon paprika (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Broccoli: In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

      Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.

        Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until fully combined.

          Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

            Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until it is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

                Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle paprika on top for color before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6-8 servings