Broccoli Rice Casserole Vegetarian Recipe Made Easy

If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting dish that’s packed with nutrition and bursting with flavor, this broccoli rice casserole vegetarian recipe is a must-try. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole offers a delightful blend of tender broccoli, fluffy rice, creamy cheese, and a hint of seasoning that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply want to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to whip up with common ingredients.

This casserole strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies, especially for picky eaters.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite cheeses or spices. Best of all, it can be prepared ahead of time and baked when you’re ready, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Let’s dive into why this broccoli rice casserole will soon become a staple on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli rice casserole is a true crowd-pleaser and here’s why:

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, this casserole hits all the cozy food cravings.
• Vegetarian and Nutritious: Loaded with broccoli, a superfood rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients, minimal prep, and can be made in one dish.
• Customizable: Swap the cheese, add nuts, or toss in extra veggies to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready, saving time on busy days.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (leftover rice works great!)
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Steamer basket or saucepan for broccoli
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets. Cook until they are bright green and just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Evenly spread it out and sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy crust.
6. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly and the topping golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set for easier slicing.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers into the mix.

Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a different twist.

For a vegan version, substitute sour cream and milk with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese.

If you prefer a gluten-free casserole, swap the breadcrumbs or crackers for crushed gluten-free options or omit entirely.

Consider prepping the casserole a day ahead and refrigerating it. When ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

This is great for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This broccoli rice casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a tangy cucumber yogurt dip. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a warm crusty bread or garlic knots.

If you want to keep it light, complement it with steamed green beans or roasted carrots. For a festive touch, a side of cranberry sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a delightful zing.

For more delicious and wholesome vegetarian dishes, check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or explore the creamy flavors in our Halibut Dip Recipe for something a bit different.

Conclusion

This broccoli rice casserole vegetarian recipe is a versatile, comforting dish that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough to bring to social gatherings.

The creamy texture paired with the vibrant broccoli and cheesy goodness makes it a wholesome treat that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a reliable and delicious choice. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, broccoli-packed bite!

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, you might also enjoy trying our Lamb Tenderloin Recipes for a protein-packed twist or relax with a sweet treat from our Lemon Straws Recipe to finish your meal perfectly.

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