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Broccoli And Cheese Casserole

This comforting Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a perfect side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course. The creamy cheese sauce blends beautifully with tender broccoli florets, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Saucepan
  • 1 Spoon or spatula
  • 1 Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese You can substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
  • 1 cup cooked rice white or brown
  • 1 cup milk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes until bubbly.
  • Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and melted.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir until well coated.
  • Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
  • Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs, distributing evenly over the casserole.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  • Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or ham into the mixture.
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese varieties such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy crust.