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Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with Mushroom Sauce

creamy cheesy broccoli rice casserole - featured image
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A comforting and easy-to-make casserole featuring tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheesy mushroom sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup whole milk or 2% milk (can substitute with almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter touch)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
  • ¾ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 cup (185 g) of rice according to package instructions, rinsing first to remove excess starch (about 15-20 minutes).
  2. Steam 3 cups (about 300 g) broccoli florets until just tender (4-5 minutes), then set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and start to brown, about 7-8 minutes.
  5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in ½ cup dry white wine and let reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Lower heat and add ¾ cup heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
  8. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and mushroom sauce.
  9. Stir in beaten eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until creamy but not soupy.
  10. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Optionally sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top.
  11. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  12. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If mushroom sauce is too thick, thin with a splash of milk. If too runny, simmer longer. Avoid overcooking broccoli to keep texture bright and firm. Let casserole rest after baking for easier serving. Frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained well. Prepare casserole ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, adding extra baking time if cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli rice casserole, cheesy casserole, mushroom sauce, comfort food, easy dinner, homemade casserole

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/creamy-cheesy-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe-for-easy-homemade-comfort-meals/