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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm embrace of a creamy casserole. The Cheesy Delight: Creamy Broccoli & Rice Casserole is a perfect example of this culinary genre. This dish seamlessly combines tender broccoli, rich cheeses, and fluffy rice, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and nutritious. Ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this casserole is sure to please a crowd while also providing wholesome nourishment.

Creamy Broccoli & Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Broccoli & Rice Casserole. A delightful blend of fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and rich cheeses come together to create a warm, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with nutrition and flavor, this casserole is easy to prepare and can cater to different dietary needs. Enjoy the creamy goodness and appealing crunch, making it a sure crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup uncooked long-grain rice

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish; optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy serving later.

    Blanch the Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 3 minutes, or until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Quickly drain the broccoli, and immediately transfer it to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain the broccoli again and set it aside.

      Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for approximately 4–5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

        Cook the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice to the saucepan, allowing it to toast slightly for about a minute. Next, pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering it. Let it simmer for around 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

          Incorporate Cheese & Broccoli: Once the rice is done, remove the saucepan from heat and carefully fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with the blanched broccoli. Stir well until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is evenly combined.

            Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cheesy broccoli and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the surface.

              Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                Garnish & Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an added touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of your delightful casserole!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6