Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bliss is the ultimate side dish that combines the comforting flavors of cheese and the nutritional powerhouse of broccoli, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you are serving it as part of a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bliss is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of Velveeta and shredded cheddar creates a rich, creamy sauce, while the broccoli adds a pop of green goodness. With a preparation time of only 10 minutes, and a total cooking time of 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, it serves eight, making it great for family meals or gatherings.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bliss

Make sure to chop the broccoli finely after cooking to ensure it blends well with the rice and cheese.

If you prefer a healthier version, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup and reducing the amount of Velveeta cheese.
For extra flavor, add some cooked chicken or bacon bits to the mix, transforming it into a hearty main dish.
If you don’t have Velveeta, you can substitute it with any meltable cheese, although the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique flavor profile – gouda or mozzarella work well too!

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bliss, gather the following ingredients:

12 oz frozen broccoli

10 oz cream of chicken soup
4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
3 cups cooked white rice

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt

1 tsp cracked pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Follow these steps to prepare your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bliss:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the frozen broccoli according to the package directions. Once cooked, chop the broccoli into smaller pieces.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cubed Velveeta cheese, cooked rice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cracked pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Step 6: After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just make sure to steam it until tender before chopping and mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. How can I make it a complete meal?

You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the mixture to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.

4. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure that your seasonings and cheese are also gluten-free.

5. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bliss is a delightful addition to your meal rotation, combining flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. Its simplicity and quick preparation time make it a favorite for busy families and entertaining guests alike. By using the ingredients you have on hand and following the steps provided, you’ll create a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s considered a classic side dish!